There is the good news and the bad news! Things are changing so fast, October brought the awaited changes to the national minimum wage – £5.93 for 22 + years; £4.94 for 18-22 years and £3.64 for under 18s.

The Government investigated 901 organisations which were set up to oversee individual operations and projects – low and behold – 192 are now on the quango bonfire, 118 have merged and 171 reformed.

Recession information has some very good results. Thousands have asked for debt advice. If you need help go to http://bit.ly/bBhIKi

Government promises 75,000 apprenticeship places at a cost of £250 million per year to rebuild skills shortages.

Lord Young to take office of Enterprise Advisor to the Prime Minister – let’s hope he continues to reduce red tape.

The best news is that the economy has exceeded everyone’s expectations and just look at the FTSE figures.

And the question of the month – What do you call a politician who has lost an election? Answer – a Consultant!

And finally: Congratulations to Kerry and Michelle Michael in pulling off one of the largest ventures in the South West, which will enhance business in the area and bring visitors in from all over the world – long may the Grand Pier prosper!

In July 2008 many residents of Weston super Mare awoke to the news that the Grand Pier had caught fire. A quick look at the news confirmed the worst, a fire had taken hold and completely gutted the pavilion building. Many people thought it spelled the end of Weston’s tourist trade but over 2 years on and a £51millon rebuild sees the Grand Pier live up to its name as Kerry and Michelle Michaels opened the pier once again.

Crowds queued overnight to be one of the first on what is being dubbed the South-West’s largest indoor theme park, braving the wind and rain in the process. This author has decided not to brave the crowds this morning although being the last paying member of the public to have been on the pier the night before the fire it would almost be fitting if I had been the first on the new pavilion!

Were you queued overnight to be one of the first on the pier? We would love to hear your experience of Weston’s newest tourist attraction.

After a long wait, the residents of Weston super Mare will finally get a first look at the £51 million development at the Grand Pier which has been plagued by problems which has seen the opening day now confirmed for the 23rd October after it was originally expected to be opened in June in time for the summer season.

For more information on the Grand Opening visit www.grandpier.co.uk

Fireworks on the sea front signal the start of the main holiday season. Hotels fully booked, restaurants buzzing, lots of visitors to our shores.

All the major indicators are showing slow improvements, but that is fine. We know this is going to take a long time, steady growth without a winter dip would be preferred. Hope you got your business rates and tax credits sorted before 1 August – the door is now closed.

Lots of training available via our office on Oldmixon Crescent – Advertising & Promotion, bookkeeping, business start up courses to name but a few.

North Somerset Business Club – one of the most cost effective networking groups in the region. Get your tickets for the Charity Ball on 2 October – being held on the new Grand Pier. Come and look around and support local business and local charities.

Remember to visit the money saver before any big purchase – I would be surprised if Martin Lewis cannot save you money on most of your shopping, including holidays and flights.

Look for new opportunities at all times, but never forget your regular customers – look after them first.

Quote of the week:

“Be careful of reading health books – you may die of a misprint”