UNIVERSITIES in the county are helping the UK economy through improved business links, according to new figures.

A survey says that since universities and higher education colleges have improved ties with business, the public sector and the wider community the UK economy has improved.

Kent has improved as a county in turning ideas into business opportunities with help from further education courses.

The new relationship helps improve research, job opportunities and idea sharing, which according to science minister Lord Sainsbury, "boosts both the local and UK economy".