Shropshire entrepreneur Mark Layder is bringing together 30 of the UK's leading business brains to help companies overcome obstacles and thrive, rather than just survive.

The Whitchurch-based businessman has created a 'think tank' - made up of leading experts in fields including sales, social media, event management, marketing and PR - to provide a resource of advice and support for business owners.

It will be available initially via phone, email and social media, before organising a series of seminars and public speaking appearances.

The group is also looking for a partner to help launch a newspaper featuring columns on the biggest business issues and raise awareness of the think tank.

He said: "We are building a network of experts who can solve any business problem - for example Andy Gilbert can advise on goal-setting and creative thinking, and Richard Swancott will help with PR and social media problems.

"We also have Howard Berg, the world's fastest reader on board. He can help business owners pick up the information they need quickly.

"Currently our think tank has 12 members and will eventually have 30 - all available via the usual channels online and offline.

"Ultimately we want to launch our own free monthly newspaper, which will educate on all business issues and help business owners become thrivalists, rather than survivalists."

Mark Layder, and his wife Ellen, have worked in personal development since 1989, in seven countries including the USA, Mexico and Italy.

They have helped a wide range of people from all walks of life, including Major Peter Danby, from the British Army, Sir Tom Farmer, Chairman of Kwik-Fit Holdings, and Premiership footballer Andy Johnson.

His mission is to create a network of 'Entelechists' - experts on various aspects of business who will help to educate business owners - and overhaul the UK's education system.

Further information is available at www.qol.co.uk.