THERE were plenty of wagging tails when a start-up business was presented with a grant.

Sarah-Jane Jacobs, who lives in Andover, launched a business offering dog walking and boarding services to anyone needing a helping hand with temporary dog care.

She has a boarding licence for up to six dogs and has teamed up with a trainer to trade under the Goodworth Gun Dogs brand.

Winton ward member, Councillor Jan Lovell, presented Sarah-Jane with a £750 Business Incentive Grant on behalf of Test Valley Borough Council last week and said: “I am delighted to award this grant.

"There are always plenty of people who need short-term help with pet care so I’m sure that the business will be a success. Sarah-Jane is passionate about dogs and clearly loves what she does.

"Her home and van are both well equipped for the new business and she has lots of ideas to further improve the facilities she has available.”

Sarah-Jane added: “I’m very grateful to Test Valley Borough Council for the grant. People have been moving away from kennelling as they feel more comfortable with leaving their dog in a more home-away-from-home facility. Combined with training and plenty of play and exercise, my job is to ensure our dogs always leave feeling content and happy.”

The Council’s Business Incentive Grants are available to anyone looking to set up their own business in Test Valley.

Anyone who successfully applies for the grant will receive a grant of £750 if their business is still going strong six months later.