AN OXFORDSHIRE builder has been selected as one of 20 companies in the South East to join a new Government programme for businesses with the potential to grow.

Oakwood Builders, of Benson, has been selected for the Seeda (South East England Development Agency) fast growth coaching programme, which is a pilot programme for supporting companies with high growth-rate potential.

Chief executive Tim Fenn said: "It's been a good year for us. We have also just been re-assessed for Investors In People and have achieved the new standard which was introduced in January 2006."

The 20 firms will receive a free business review and a dedicated business coach for 12 days, as well as access to other support.

The coaching includes performance benchmarking, investment readiness, innovation, intellectual property, leadership and management capability, workforce skills and market understanding.