PRIME Minister Gordon Brown today revealed he had been “inspired” by Suffolk's resolute response to the global economic storm.

PRIME Minister Gordon Brown today revealed he had been “inspired” by Suffolk's resolute response to the global economic storm.

The British premier lauded the county's talent, skill and innovation after giving his firm backing to The Evening Star's Fight Back campaign, which is championing our battling businesses and burgeoning institutions.

Mr Brown said: “I'm delighted to support the Evening Star's Fight Back campaign.

“I know these are difficult times for people around the country but I have confidence in the British people's determination to come through this, and I know that people will work together to make sure Britain emerges from this stronger and fairer.

“We are working internationally, nationally and regionally to build a better Britain and it is inspiring to see people from Suffolk coming together, fighting for their community.

“We are doing all we can to support businesses and families now, providing help with mortgages, fuel bills, and shopping bills and making sure that we have a banking system that works. We are taking action both to help people now and build for the future.

“With the talent, skills and innovation you possess in Suffolk and across this great country we are well placed to ride out the global economic storm.

“Congratulations to the Evening Star and I hope other newspapers will follow your lead.”

The Fight Back campaign was launched in response to the reports of financial doom and gloom which have flooded the national and international media in recent weeks and months.

Our aim is to bring you the many positive stories detailing Suffolk's triumph over economic adversity.

And there is much to be optimistic about.

The county is soon to welcome a number of large-scale developments, worth around �275million, including phase two of University Campus Suffolk, the unveiling of the multi-million pound Suffolk New College, and further Waterfront regeneration in Ipswich.

Tell us how you are beating the economic blues - Call The Evening Star newsdesk on 01473 324840 or e-mail starnews@eveningstar.co.uk

AN Ipswich independent fashion retailer today told how his business was prospering despite the financial downturn.

Daniel Le Sauvage, owner of Urban Vintage in Queen Street, opened his men's clothing store more than two years ago and has enjoyed continued success.

The 34-year-old said: “I recognised there was a niche in the market in Ipswich.

“Our key is customer satisfaction. We are able to give people a different experience to any other fashion store in the town.

“Business has snow-balled since we opened and now we are getting ready to launch our internationally transactional website, which will be up-and-running later this month.”

The store's popularity is such that, despite recession, Mr Le Sauvage is drawing up ambitious plans to open Urban Vintage outlets elsewhere in the UK.

The former Northgate High School pupil made the leap into the fashion industry after previously working for a Ferrari dealership in Colchester.

He said: “I chose to open the store in Ipswich because it is my home town and I knew it would be a challenge.

“We are open seven days a week and it is hard work but it's been a real success.”

Future and ongoing developments in Suffolk:

? P&O Ferrymasters will join the East of England Co-operative Society at Wherstead Park later this month.

? Opening of new Tesco in St Matthew's Street

? Suffolk University Campus Suffolk phase II in Duke Street - construction commenced (�50 million)

? Suffolk New College under construction (�75million) opening in September 2009.

? SWISS sixth form centre project (�50million-plus) under construction opening September 2010.

? Westgate centre (�50million)

? Tarmac operation relocation from Island site to Cliff Quay

? Mediterranean Shipping Company has opened new high class facility (250 staff capacity).

? New pedestrian bridge for Fairview development, Ranelagh Road.

? Tesco has bought the old B&Q site in Grafton Way.

? Continued development of Ipswich Waterfront with the Regatta Quay and Mill developments nearing completion.