A leading PR company in Staffordshire has launched a unique new course to turn small businesses into mini PR machines.

Stoke-on-Trent PR firm Richard Swancott Associates have developed the programme, the first of its kind in the UK, to take participants through planning and implementing a PR campaign.

Guests will receive guidance on writing newsworthy press releases, developing a long-term PR strategy which includes events and award applications, and hear from industry experts on what makes a good story.

The year-long programme, made up of 12 monthly two-hour sessions, will also feature advice on using social networking sites and blogs to bring in business.

Owner Richard Swancott said: "Lots of PR firms in Staffordshire, including us, run workshops and we believe they are very good at getting people fired up and giving them ideas.

"However, having left the workshop, people rarely put into practice what they've learned, because they get side-tracked by what they consider to be more pressing issues.

"We want to put a stop to that by keeping them focussed and giving them the chance to regularly brainstorm ideas, solve PR problems and hear from the experts about what they should focus on.

"There is nothing like this on the market, because most people are left to their own devices - we want to help them ensure PR makes a real difference to their businesses."

The course, which costs £500 + VAT, starts on February 22nd 2010 (12-2), at the Lymedale Business Centre in Newcastle.

For more information, contact Richard Swancott Associates on 01782 416371/07880 733138, or info@richardswancottassociates.co.uk.