A council has creates a new Business Champion role to support economic recovery.

South Cheshire councillor Sarah Pochin is taking on the post announced by Cheshire East Council leader Sam Corcoran.

The Bunbury councillor's remit includes supporting businesses on the high street, engaging with SMEs, larger organisations and those facing unemployment across the borough.

The council says Sarah will support and advise cabinet members on the following;

• Regulatory and government policy to aid high street and town centre recovery

• The promotion of the borough to attract inward investment
• Development of the council's commercial strategy and commercial ventures
• Delivery of the rural action plan in relation to support to the rural economy
• Delivering a sustainable and green economy including the development of low carbon industry.

Together with the relevant cabinet members and officers, Cllr Pochin will engage with businesses and corporate representatives across Cheshire East, to successfully deliver agreed targets within approved timescales.

Cllr Sam Corcoran said: "Covid-19 has had a profound impact on businesses in Cheshire East, as it has across the UK and internationally.

"However, I am proud of the borough's economy, its businesses and workers and I am confident that we can overcome the obstacles that Covid-19 has created. I look forward to the benefit of Cllr Pochin's advice and experience in supporting the council's economic recovery."

Cllr Sarah Pochin, said: "I am delighted to be given the opportunity to take on a vital role. Our borough continues to face many challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic. As business champion, I am looking forward to supporting the Cabinet in taking this important agenda forward.

"Aiding economic recovery is a necessity, to attract new investment and develop our rural and green economies. I will work hard, alongside cabinet, to ensure all businesses and their employees across Cheshire East are supported."