Two Sussex business leaders have met government ministers to pass on the key to their companies' success.

The firms were selected by Sussex Enterprise to spread the word to other would-be entrepreneurs that a range of help and advice is available for anyone thinking of starting or expanding a business.

David Holman, of St Leonards' firm Fastplas Technical Mouldings, and Tony Hayes, of JLC Auto-mation based in Hailsham, met a number of ministers, including Trade and Industry Secretary Patricia Hewitt, at an event to mark the second anniversary of the government's Small Business Service.

Mr Holman said: "Fastplas has grown rapidly over the last 18 months thanks to the help of Sussex Enterprise and Business Link services.

"Although we started out with the technical expertise, we lacked the business skills to drive the company forward.

"With the help of a business advisor we have developed the right management, marketing and financial skills."

Mr Hayes said he was honoured to be invited to the event and to share his business experience with key ministers.

He said: "It is important businesses such as JLC Automation let others know about the benefits of Business Link services.

"The help that is available can really make a difference to new and growing companies."

Minister for small business Nigel Griffiths said: "Small businesses are the life blood of the economy. They employ 12 million people and contribute £1 trillion to the UK economy each year.

"I am determined to ensure the environment in Sussex is ideal for more small businesses to start up and flourish.

"Fastplas and JLC Automation have agreed to become ambassadors for small business. I hope their success will give more budding entrepreneurs in Sussex the confidence to take the plunge and start their own business and to take advantage of the wealth of support and advice that is available."