LEADING technology firms are being used by borough chiefs as a model to inspire small creative and digital firms in east Cheshire.

Barclays’ Global Technology Centre, in Radbroke, and the Warner Bros-owned TT Fusion, in Wilmslow, are among a number of companies to have been hailed by Cheshire East Council’s Skills and Growth Company after it set up a new taskforce to promote the sector.

Industry-led group Weave will promote the borough’s creative and digital industry, address skills gaps and ensure businesses can continue to flourish.

And with the sector growing 30 per cent faster than the average for the economy in recent years, borough chiefs hope Weave will help east Cheshire firms thrive.

Denise Proctor, chairman of Weave, said: “Our creative businesses have a proven track record of award-winning innovation and regularly top the league tables of the most influential industry-leading expertise.

“Weave will celebrate our strengths, ensure we can both retain and attract skilled staff and be equipped to face the challenges of a rapidly-evolving sector.”

East Cheshire is home to 2,000 businesses in the sector, employing around 7,500 people with a combined turnover of more than £250 million a year.

The borough’s technology firms include specialisms such as programming, software development, game and app design, website building and advertising.

Cllr George Hayes, chairman of CEC’s Skills and Growth Company, said: “East Cheshire is home to some of the most diverse and dynamic businesses in the county.

“We are delighted to help to raise the profile of our creative and digital sector and celebrate their achievements, whilst securing future growth.”

The Weave board is made up of representatives from several leading creative and digital businesses across the borough, including Barclays, and new members from the sector are welcome.

As part of the new initiative, Weave will be hosting a series of ‘Town Talks’ across the borough to inspire east Cheshire’s creative industry.

For more information visit weave.org.uk