MORE than 1,000 Somerset businesses have signed up as potential suppliers for the proposed multi-billion pound new nuclear power station at Hinkley Point.

But just 133 companies are from West Somerset, the district which will host the controversial project.

The largest number of businesses - 349 - are from Sedgemoor, with 196 in Taunton Deane, 139 in South Somerset, 105 in Mendip and 90 in North Somerset.

Businesses in Minehead and Watchet are among 200 South West firms which have already been awarded contracts.

One of the latest to register as a potential supplier is Cornerstone Design and Projects Ltd in Minehead which specialises in landscaping and garden and pond design.

Managing director James Scott said: "We are excited about the prospects that the Hinkley new nuclear build can offer local firms such as ours."

Mr Scott said the company had recently taken on an apprentice from the West Somerset Community College to help with its growth plans and it hoped to increase this to three in 2013 if all went well.

Local contracts awarded so far include a wide range of goods and services, from plant hire and catering to building and scaffolding.

EDF Energy, which is behind the Hinkley development, said the high number of local sign-ups for potential suppliers was the result of a partnership between the company and Somerset Chamber of Commerce.

The chamber's chief executive Rupert Cox said: "It's really positive to be working so closely with EDF Energy to secure opportunities and benefits for local firms."

And Chris Squires from EDF Energy said local firms could benefit both in the construction phase as well as the 60-year operational life of the proposed station.

"I'd encourage other local companies to register their interest as there will be many millions of pounds worth of work on offer," he said.

Companies interested in finding out more can visit http://www.hinkleysupplychain.co.uk">www.hinkleysupplychain.co.uk.