SUMMER is usually a quiet time for the Guernsey Enterprise Agency – but not this year.

A record number of people visited during June and July to discuss business ideas.

During the last two months, the number of clients has doubled compared with the same period last year.

The agency has seen the same range of businesses but the overall numbers for this year are already just short of the total seen in the whole of 2008.

Agency business advisor Tony Brassell (pictured) said the increase in clients had been substantial and was difficult to explain.

‘If more people are staying at home this year and money is tight, perhaps they are putting their minds to ways of increasing their income or earning additional income by starting their own businesses,’ he said.

‘Whatever the reason, it is good to see that people are taking advantage of the free and confidential advice we have to offer and ensuring they get the best possible start with their new enterprise or help where they need it with their existing business.’

* Anyone who would like help with a business idea, or with an existing business, can call the agency on 710043 to make an appointment to see an advisor.