There is a helpful advice session for anyone already in business or thinking of starting their own business, taking place on Saturday, April 8th at Bridstow Village Hall from 10am until 12pm.

No appointment is necessary, just turn up with your questions. This event is open to anyone currently in business, not yet started or simply has a personal tax question about being a landlord or other sources of income and would like an answer.

On April 1st, those who attended a similar event at St Weonards' Village Hall had the opportunity to ask their questions over tea and biscuits. They also received answers to questions they didn’t know they should ask from Penny Lowe of Wellington Consulting.

The questions included: When do I need to tell the taxman I’ve started my own business? How should I record my payments and receipts? Does it get complicated if I have a pension, some income from employment and income from my business? Do I have to have an accountant? What about expenses I pay out before I get my first sale? How should I set up a partnership? How much does it cost to set up a limited company and would it be the right thing to do?

This is just a selection, some of which were asked more than once at the event.

Due to the style of the morning, attendees also had a chance to ask broader questions such as ‘How should I tell people I am available?’

Due to her experience in marketing and many aspects of business across a wide range of trades and industries, Penny was able to offer suggestions in areas beyond accounts. All attendees also received a free copy of Penny’s book, Understanding Accounts for the UK Business Owner.

One attendee summed up her visit by saying “Friendly, professional advice given. Penny has an in-depth understanding of the issues facing new businesses."