A LIGHTING business is beaming from a cash boost to help it grow.

The Lampshade Company, in Ardleigh, has received £15,559 in funding from the Tendring SME Growth Fund – a £750,000 scheme to support small and medium enterprises and create jobs in the district.

Bids can be made to Tendring Council and the initiative is supported by funding from Essex County Council.

The scheme provides grants for new and existing businesses location in, or to relocate to Tendring.

Zoe Fairley, Tendring Council’s cabinet member for investment and growth said, the fund represents an excellent opportunity for local businesses to expand and create new jobs.

“The council is proud to be able to support our businesses through this scheme,” she added.

“I sincerely hope that the success of this particular company will serve as an inspiration to those looking to start up or grow within Tendring and that they come forward with their own bids.”

The Lampshade Company manufactures lampshades by hand using a range of designer fabrics and offers a service where customers can send in their own wallpaper or fabric to make bespoke pieces.

The business relocated from its previous studios in Colchester to larger premises in Mother Studios, in Ardleigh, as demand for work increased.

Owner Angela Berry said the business was delighted that it has been recognised its growth plans.

“It can prove extremely difficult for a small business like ours to grow; the support we have received from the SME Growth Fund will really help us take our business to the next level and implement our growth strategy,” she added.

“We are all very excited about the future of the business and what this may bring to the local community.”