The North Staffordshire Regeneration Zone (NSRZ) beat 11 other entrants to the Enterprising Britain 2007 title after turning the area from "the worst place in the country to start a business" to a centre of enterprise.

The Government-run competition recognised the changes brought by the NSRZ, which helped 500 new start ups in the last six years, supported the creation of 1,000 new jobs, 21 sustainable social enterprises and gave more than 7,500 young people the opportunity to run their own businesses.

John Hutton, Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform (BERR), said:

"The achievements of the North Staffordshire Regeneration Zone illustrate what can be achieved if a community works together to improve their local economy.

"Through strength and determination as well as a well thought out business plan, NSRZ has transformed North Staffordshire into a successful and rewarding place in which to work and live - it is a truly worthy winner of Enterprising Britain 2007."