Staffordshire companies experienced a strong increase in their exports in the fourth quarter of 2014, according to a new survey by the county’s Chambers of Commerce.

This found that 62% of the 207 businesses questioned reported “dramatic” rises in export sales, compared to 49% in the third quarter.

Meanwhile, 47% said that their sales in the UK had also remained strong, with 35% planning to recruit over the next three months.

Staffordshire Chamber deputy chief executive Jane Gratton (pictured) said: “Local businesses are well placed to grow in 2015, which is a testament to their hard work and resilience.

"It is particularly pleasing to see our manufacturing sector bounce back, despite signs of a slowdown in recent months. However, we must aim for growth that is sustainable in the long term.

“Strong investment and employment results indicate that businesses are gearing up for a big year in 2015. It is now vitally important that firms are able to convert their growth ambitions into reality.

"While the Chamber is here to provide practical help and support to growing firms, the Government needs to do more to strengthen the business-finance system, which constrains the growth aspirations of too many firms.

“The economic recovery still faces several obstacles, intensified by the uncertainty of the upcoming General Election. To maintain business confidence, politicians at a local and national level must use the election campaign to outline their plans to support long-term business growth and investment.”