A YOUNG entrepreneur from Colchester has launched a new service for businesses looking for marketing and public relations on a shoestring.

Rechenda Smith, 27, has set up rechendasmithpr.co.uk after seven years in the industry.

Holder of a postgraduate diploma from the Chartered Institute of Public Relations and previous winner of its East Anglian young communicator of the year award, Rechenda has launched the company to work specifically with small to medium-sized businesses in the region.

She said: “Using a freelancer can be a cost-friendly way for small businesses to get a top-quality PR service and a hassle-free solution for agencies looking to add additional resources.”

Rechenda previously held an account director role at regional PR agency Mosaic Publicity, as well as press officer roles at Colchester Institute and social housing provider St Matthew Housing.