Mary Portas-style guru recruited for Newport

Troubleshooter Mark O'Dolan is working with a dozen firms in the market town to assess where they need help and then offer practical ways they can develop and improve.

Mr O'Dolan was brought by Newport Town Team, which tapped up a government initiative which provides expert retail advice to local businesses.

The initiative is funded through the Employer Ownership Fund and is delivered by the National Skills Academy for Retail.

Mr O'Dolan, an expert on high street trading, has been introduced to local business owners over the past few weeks. The service he provides is confidential and an initial introduction is provided free of charge.

Businesses are then asked to contribute a one-off payment of £25 for a joint review, developing actions for their business and a period of on-going mentoring during their implementation.

Town Team Manager Mike Atherton said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for local traders to get some expert independent advice and support for a nominal fee.

"Often traders know what they need to be doing but are too busy with their day-to-day business to make necessary changes. People like Mark O'Dolan can give them the confidence and impetus to make their businesses better. While individual consultations are confidential, we will receive some generalised feedback that will help us to put together further packages of support."

E-mail newportshropstownteam@hotmail.co.uk or call 07581 454882.