THE number of businesses in Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire has risen dramatically over the past six years, latest figures show.

In East Renfrewshire, the number of registered enterprises has soared by 18 per cent since 2010 – the third highest growth rate in Scotland – according to parliamentary research.

And, in Renfrewshire, the total has grown by nine per cent over the same period, placing it firmly in the top 20 local authority areas for growth.

There are now more than 2,700 businesses in East Renfrewshire, while Renfrewshire boasts more than 5,000, having grown by three per cent in the last year alone.

It was also found that East Renfrewshire has a relatively high proportion of creative industry enterprises, which made up 12 per cent of all businesses in the area last year.

Both areas also boasted a high share of financial and business services, accounting for 21 per cent of enterprises in East Renfrewshire and 15 per cent in Renfrewshire.

The data also shows that seven per cent of Renfrewshire firms operate in manufacturing.

To celebrate the entrepreneurial nature of both areas, firms are being encouraged to enter the Celebrating Small Business Awards 2018, run by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

Supported by Business Gateway in Scotland, the awards are free to enter and open to all small companies.

Hugh Lightbody, chief officer of Business Gateway, said: “While it is gratifying to see the business community grow in areas which need to grow their local economies, we’re there for start-ups and growing firms across the country.

“FSB and Business Gateway work closely across Scotland. We’re thrilled to be partnering with them to deliver these awards.”

Andy Willox, the FSB’s Scottish policy convenor, added: “Smaller firms make a vital contribution to local communities but we know that some in business are too modest for their own good.

“That’s why we’re launching these awards to find the best small business talent.”

Applications should be made online at www.fsbawards.co.uk before Friday, November 10.