Cumbrian companies are being urged by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) to bolster exports.

Clive Drinkwater, the northwest director for the UKTI, visited the region to encourage businesses to compete globally in order to keep the Cumbrian economy buoyant.

He said that help is available for any Cumbrian firm that is hoping to "go global".

Support includes Passport to Export, which is the flagship programme for new and inexperienced exporters, as well as the Export Market Research Service and the Overseas Market Introduction Service.

"In addition, the UKTI has comprehensive programme of overseas market visits and incoming trade delegations," said Mr Drinkwater.

According to the Manufacturing Institute, founded by northwest companies and universities, strong exports are helping to keep the UK manufacturing sector "extremely viable".

"There is growing consumption in emerging markets, particularly ... Brazil, Russia, India and China, where UK manufacturers have a strong foothold," a spokesman stated.