With less than two weeks to go before the transition period comes to an end and with negotiations still ongoing, businesses should be taking action to prepare for January 1.

From the start of the new year, new rules will be in place for British-based businesses trading within the EU.

Dudley Council has pulled together advice and support via the Dudley Business First website to help businesses make the necessary changes.

Businesses can complete the Brexit Checker and get a list of actions they need to complete before the end of the year.

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said:

"Brexit offers fantastic opportunities for the UK and all of the businesses based here in the borough.

"There are billions of pounds worth of trade deals already in place with more work in the pipeline to build a positive future.

"I really do believe that if businesses can work with us to be prepared for the change, we have the potential for accelerated growth out of these difficult times, and can bounce back quickly in the New Year

"It is my firm view that there is a lot to be positive about in the future but we need businesses to plan with us and be ready for the change.

"The West Midlands Growth Company is already predicting that the West Midlands will bounce back quickly following the pandemic and have larger growth than London."

Advice and information can be found on preparing-your-business-for-brexit

Alternatively, businesses can go to www.gov.uk/transition