The VAT increase and a harsh winter have presented some big challenges to Plymouth's small businesses over the last few months.

The number of vacant shops in the city is still below the national average and one and a half million people visited Drake Circus in March.

But it's thought the snow meant many shops' christmas takings weren't as high as usual.

Plymouth also has its own business improvement district, where firms pay a levy each month to have a greater say on how the area is run.