Barton Stacey dog care business awarded £750 grant

Boardwalk in Barton Stacey has been awarded a £750 Business incentive grant.

Owner Debbie Sturgess set up Boardwalk, which offers dog walking, daycare and home boarding, as a change of career after 15 years working as a teaching assistant. 

Debbie applied to the council for a business incentive grant before starting her new business in December last year. 

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Cllr David Drew and Debbie Sturgess (Image: TVBC)She recently received her cheque as she’s been up and running for more than six months, therefore meeting the criteria for the award.

Debbie said: “I am passionate about making sure dogs are cared for whilst owners are away on holiday or at work. The costs are always greater when you’re setting up a business, which is why I applied for the council grant which really is a great help.”

Debbie’s cheque was presented by Harewood ward councillor David Drew who added: “One of our priorities as a council is developing a competitive local economy and the business incentive grant exists to make a positive contribution to new businesses like Boardwalk, by helping towards their set up costs.”

Business incentive grants are for new businesses located in Test Valley and must be applied for before people start a business. They will be paid once it has been up and running for six months.