A BUSINESS on Barry Island has been cited as one of the great success stories of the past four years by the Welsh Government.

Figures released this week show that the number of businesses operating in Wales has grown by 11 per cent in the last four years, with many budding entrepreneurs getting their start through Business Wales, the Welsh Government’s business support service.

One of these businesses is K9 Plus 1 on Barry Island, a unique dog friendly cafe that has taken on five members of staff in just six months of being open.

The cafe success has been so great that it has also been featured on BBC One's "The One Show".

K9 Plus 1 is decorated with dog-themed wallpaper, bowls, cups, tea pots, condiment sets and menus and even hosts birthday parties for dogs.

It offers homemade doggy treats and cakes which are also edible for humans, and has feeding stations both inside and out as well as dog sofas and beds.

Owner April Keeble says that everyone, whether a dog owner or not, seems to love the fun and quirky theme, as well as the friendly, welcoming environment.

“The dogs love it and the owners love the family atmosphere," she said."Especially the homemade cakes and scones on offer. Everyone is welcome here.”

After being out of work due to health reasons for more than 10 years, Ms Keeble hit upon the idea of starting the business after hearing about similar coffee-shops which were popular in Australia. Looking at the local area, she realised that a dog-themed coffee shop would be perfect for Barry Island.

With the help of Business Wales April opened the cafe in April 2015.

Ms Keeble said: “The Business Wales support has really benefited me as an individual. It helped to give me the confidence and know-how to start the business.

"My business advisers have provided support with completing a successful funding application to the Start Up Loan Company and have helped me to advertise the business on Google maps and TripAdvisor.

"It’s all been helping to build the business’ profile; I know it’s working because of the amount of repeat business from our wonderful customers that we’ve been getting.”

Business Wales is funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government. To find out how Business Wales can help start or develop a business visit www.business.wales.gov.uk or www.busnes.cymru.gov.uk