IT'S a turbulent time for business owners, with each week comes another survey proclaiming either darker times ahead or a light at the end of the tunnel.

With conflicting reports and statistics it’s hard to know what’s best to do for your business.

The first thing to say, is don’t be a victim of the hype. Don’t assume just because others are struggling or succeeding that you will too.

A sensible head is required. Look at your own business situation rather than the global economic one.

First, you should take advantage of the free expert advice and support from Business Link.

The service is still here, offering face-to-face business support from specialist advisors.

But if you want to take advantage of this free face-to-face business advice there has never been a more important time to contact us. At the end of November the way Business Link operates is changing. The service will be delivered almost entirely through a comprehensive website, the free face-to-face contact with specialist advisers, which so many of our clients find invaluable, will no longer be available.

Our team of experienced advisers understand the importance of local knowledge and has helped more than 30,000 North East businesses in the last year alone.

If you want to take advantage of their free, independent and impartial advice don’t delay.

Two business people that did just that are Catherine Denton from Cake, and Keith Anthony from Environmental Products.

Both contacted Business Link and started working with dedicated specialist advisors who helped them realise their business ambitions.