BUSINESS development work at Huddersfield University has netted a £1.2m cash award.

The University was given the money to allow it to continue running projects that help new businesses flourish.

These include opening up the University's research and development facilities and training people to become basic skills tutors.

The tutors teach basic literacy, numeracy and language skills to their work colleagues.

Pro vice-chancellor Professor Barry Lee said: "It is immensely satisfying to see that the University has been rewarded for its work.

"People without English as a first language or without numeracy and literacy skills, who might feel intimidated about seeking help elsewhere, are more likely to turn to trusted colleagues."

The cash has been awarded by the Government's Higher Education Innovation Fund via the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE).

The Business Generator, based at The Media Centre in Northumberland Street, is one of the university's biggest projects.

The Generator was set up five years ago to provide students, staff, graduates and the public with low cost offices and advice to help them start a business.

The Generator's success has led to the University being chosen as an example of good practice by the national trade association UK Business Incubation (UKBI).

The UKBI held a one-day conference at the University on Wednesday, attended by UKBI deputy chief executive Peter Harman.

Delegates visited the Generator.