FAST-growth technology companies in Wiltshire and the South West have given the region an overwhelming thumbs-up.

In a new survey of last year's Technology Fast 50 companies (ranking is based on percentage growth in turnover over a three-year-period), claimed the region was a good location for business, and that if starting up their businesses today, they would still choose this region.

Mike Kellond, MD of DVE, at Wootton Bassett, moved his hi-tech company several years ago to be at the centre of the Swindon technology boom.

He said: "Moving to Swindon was a conscious decision that has paid dividends in business terms as the company continues its dramatic growth.

"Being located in Swin-don means we are ideally positioned to benefit from a good, stable supplier base that understands our business, and also to take advantage of the superb skilled workforce.

"In addition, the excellent communication links in terms of road and rail mean easy access to our nationwide customer base, and of course, there are the many lifestyle benefits."

For most South West companies, it is the out-of-London costs that represent the region's biggest single attraction.

But for Laurence Hedditch, South West technology partner for accountants Deloitte and Touche, which organises the Technology Fast 50 awards, there is a fly in the ointment.

He said: "Surveys have identified skills shortages and recruitment problems .

"For hi-tech, where growth rates can be among the fastest, this could represent a major double danger."