BUSINESSES in the North West, including Cumbria, are optimistic about their performance in post-Brexit Britain, new research suggests.

A survey by the HR and payroll provider, NGA Human Resources (NGA HR), and its SME division, Moorepay, suggests that 61 per cent region believe performance will improve following the leave vote – the highest level of confidence across the UK.

Brokering new trade deals is considered the biggest advantage of leaving the EU.

Some 61 per cent expect to hire staff following the vote, and North West businesses were the most optimistic about the effects Brexit will have on talent retention and acquisition, with 67 per cent expecting a positive outcome.

Jonathan Legdon, president UK and Ireland at NGA HR, said: "It is great to see that companies in the North West are ready to embrace Brexit and the opportunities that come from it.

“Their optimism and resilience to even the most fundamental changes will be instrumental in overcoming any potential economic volatility in the future.”