The Business and Intellectual Property Centre covering Teesside has officially opened its doors in Darlington.

The service will support entrepreneur’s start and grow their business thanks to free one-to-one support and access to industry leading business resources.

Cockerton Library is the latest location in the region to deliver BIPC services, with other hubs opening in Stockton, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool and Redcar.

The BIPC will help people start and grow a small business with free business databases, market research, confidential one-to-one support, advice clinics and workshops.

Paul Swalwell, Business Engagement and Marketing Manager for BIPC Tees Valley, said: “We know that libraries are at the heart of our communities, and we are proud to be working with the British Library, the Intellectual Property Office and Darlington Borough Council to deliver this project."

Deputy Leader of Darlington Borough Council, Councillor Andy Keir, said: “The BIPC is a great new addition to our library services and I will watch with interest the innovative businesses that are created and supported."

The BIPC Tees Valley is one of 22 centres across a national network and has helped support hundreds of individuals from across the region.