Camborne businesses' Town Deal 'Project A-Void' funding

One of these is local saddler Martin Hughes, who has received a grant of £3,800.

This will be used to purchase a new industrial leather sewing machine, greatly enhancing his ability to create products.

The funds are part of the Project A-Void fund, administered by BID Camborne.

The money has enabled Mr Hughes, who trades as M R H Saddler and is based in 'Up Memory Lane' in Trelowarren Street, to significantly speed up the production process.

He said: "I can now take on much larger work commissions and that's making a big difference".

Mr Hughes continued: "Now I can mark up and make something like a shotgun cartridge bag in around half an hour, and turning an old saddle into a handbag takes under two hours".

Another one of the last business owners to secure this grant was Caitlin Kingston, who opened her Enchanted Ink tattoo parlour in January.

She said: "The money I received has gone towards a new window and signage, and that's made a massive difference to the shop frontage".

Ms Kingston added that opening her business in Camborne was one of the best decisions she has ever made.

Over 100 businesses based in Camborne have received Town Deal grants of up to £5000 each.

Among these is the Vox Dance Studio, which got a grant for new ballet barres in April.

Director and founder of the studio, Nichola Reynolds said: "This grant has enabled us to upgrade our studio by adding a further eight metres of professional ballet barres.

"It’s improved our studio and enabled us to provide the best facilities possible".

BID Camborne manager Anna Pascoe said that more than half a million pounds have been granted to businesses since 2020.

She highlighted that the Camborne was awarded £23.7m in Town Deal funding, the highest amount in Cornwall.

Ms Pascoe said: "It's wonderful to see the impact Town Deal funding is having."

Plans in Camborne includes 11 projects ranging from a modern co-working facility, a multi-functional community hub, and street improvement, to a skatepark and renovation of the rugby ground.

Meanwhile, the next phase of Project A-Void involves the introduction of new branding and signage by July.

For more information, visit www.cambornetowndeal.com.