A START-UP pack has been made available to entrepreneurs in a bid to reduce the number of businesses which fail in the first 18 months.

The Thames Gateway Chamber of Commerce has launched a pack based on feedback from north Kent businesses which have recently gone under.

It includes three years' free business banking, free software trials, half-price chamber membership and free legal advice.

Chamber chief executive Tracey Manley said: "Hundreds of businesses try to start up in the Thames Gateway area every year and two-thirds fail in the first 18 months.

"This is mainly because they do not have a support network in place and are very lonely and isolated.

"Our pack will provide advice, contacts and invitations to trade fairs where people can obtain valuable business experience."

For more information about the new pack, visit the website thebusiness-startup.co.uk or call 01634 311411.