Christmas, celebrations and networking was at the heart of a successful business showcase yesterday where 14 new businesses launched their products and services.

Terry Mullins, "The Reluctant Salesman," opened the event with a presentation on selling techniques which gave the new business owners some tips on selling their products or services.

Eliza Bindle Jones, Sea Thyme Massage, was offering ten minute massages to the public, Spark mentors, and staff and students from the college. The gluten and dairy free cakes were a hit with everyone who was there. Lisa Spooner, No Glu – No Moo, specialises in baking cakes using natural and local ingredients.

Authentic Canarian Chilli Sauce, produced by Guanchitas, was proving popular, with a range of spice, there was something for everyone.

Pam Sekula, Spark coordinator said: "It was great to see how the combined efforts of the participants and the Spark team over the past eight months came to fruition and the diversity of the new business starting up is just amazing."

The new start up business programme Spark, which has been developed and is delivered by Truro and Penwith College, is packed full of knowledge and tools to support individuals to start or grow a business. The five step process provides practical support through a range of workshops, business planning, guidance and one to one coaching and mentoring.

Designed to support each client on their journey to bringing their business idea to life, selected clients will receive a six-week test trade period in a supportive environment to trial and start up the business. A grant of £500 for business start-up costs, plus a package of support and training in excess of £4,000 and a business mentor will also be provided. Once the business has started, there is continued support for up to 12 months.