Life is getting tougher for many businesses as world economies falter and recession looms.

This is borne out by the latest figures released by credit information specialists, Dun & Bradstreet, which show that nearly 10,000 businesses went bankrupt in the third quarter of this year.

John McQueen, founder and chief executive of The Bankruptcy Association says the trend is a worrying development which is beginning to reflect the slump of the early 90s.

"Our experiences during that period were that people were totally unaware of the legal consequences and problems surrounding bankruptcy. Being prepared and having a basic understanding of it often eases the blow and causes less stress if it happens," he said.

In 1992 there were 32,000 bankruptcies. The figures declined as the economy picked up but are again starting to climb.

The Bankruptcy Association has produced a book - Debt Problems Explained - which is offered to Guardian readers at a reduced price of £2.95. For more information call 01524 64305.

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