A business hub supporting Cardigan and Newcastle Emlyn businesses has expanded its reach.

Newcastle Emlyn-based Antur Cymru Enterprise, who previously launched start-up support centres in Aberystwyth, Cardigan, and Newcastle Emlyn, has unveiled its fourth in Broad Street, at the heart of Newtown.

Businesses such as Peony Green bespoke lampshades, Awaken Spiritual Wellbeing and Home Décor, and Josie's Creations handmade jewellery already operate from this premises.

Josephine Stephens credited the hub's dedicated team of mentors for bolstering her handmade jewellery business.

Ms Stephens said: "I had always enjoyed crafting but with the help and advice of Antur Cymru, feel I am able to take it forward as a business."

She added that the hub provides a space for businesses to exchange ideas, receive feedback and gain guidance.

Debbie Williams, of Colourburst Jewellery highlighted the location's advantageous position, suggesting that it has the potential to increase footfall in the shopping centre.

Ms Williams said: "In the few weeks since joining the space, we have had a positive response from customers.

"It's a fantastic location."

Meanwhile, Lauren Garbutt of Seren Handmade business logos and workwear sees the expansion as a positive development for her emerging business.

She said: "They have given me advice, and a place here at the shop, which I’m really grateful for – we look forward to seeing what the future brings."

But it's not just the business owners who are benefiting from the new expansion.

The Local Business Support programme also encourages enterprises of all scales to take advantage of the available grants and training opportunities.

This initiative can assist these businesses in various facets, such as marketing, exports, sustainability, and diversification.

Councillor David Selby sees the programme as an effective risk reducer for start-ups.

Mr Selby said: "Starting a new business is both risky and hard work but potentially rewarding, and this scheme has the capacity to remove some of the risk by providing exposure to new markets and customers, literally a shop window for growth."

Project manager Julie Morgan reflected an optimistic outlook on the future of the businesses in Newtown.

Ms Morgan said: "We will continue to work with start-ups, independent businesses and entrepreneurs and give them a platform to sell their products and lay the foundations for a successful future, which in turn will have a long-lasting effect on the local economy here in Powys."

Anyone interested in Antur Cymru can visit their website or follow them on social media for more information.