MORE small businesses started up in York and Selby during 2011 than ever before.

Data taken from a national BankSearch survey showed Selby recorded the second biggest increase in Yorkshire with an 11.2 per cent increase in new businesses in 2011 than 2010.

York was third with 9.9 per cent, or 1,661 new businesses being created in 2011, from 2010’s 1,511.

Kirklees was the frontrunner with a 11.4 per cent increase, while Leeds came in fifth at 2.9 per cent.

Coun James Alexander, leader of City of York Council, said: “This suggests there is growth in enterprise at the small start-up end, but the key for us will be to continue to provide proper support so that these businesses can not only survive, but indeed thrive.”

Ryedale recorded 2.4 per cent more new businesses, Hambleton 1.8 per cent more, and the East Riding of Yorkshire 1.6 per cent more, while Scarborough recorded 1.2 per cent fewer.

Simon Williams, North Yorkshire regional chairman for Federation of Small Businesses, said: “Setting up and running a business can be a daunting prospect, and it is a lot of hard work. But it is also one of the most rewarding things that you can do and can be one of the most positive changes someone can make for themselves and the community they live in. We are delighted that so many in York are taking the step.”