But while directors, managers and staff battle manfully to build successful and prosperous businesses in the face of a slowing economy, it seems that politicians see these enterprising efforts as a good source of cash.

Certainly that is the impression of the British Chambers of Commerce, which has just launched a new campaign to tackle the Government on a raft of issues that are giving small and medium-sized businesses a big headache.

And there are no prizes for guessing that top of the list is tax.

Director general David Frost was not pulling any punches when he said: "Politicians believe that, because the last 10 years have been really good for businesses, they can just tax them more and more.

"Politicians take the success of business too much for granted."

His words should be heeded in Peterborough, which has enjoyed a high level of business success.

News that fine furniture maker Willis and Gambier is to move its distribution operations to Peterborough and create more than 100 jobs is just the latest in a series of success stories.

Over the last few weeks, ET Business has reported the triumphs of a variety of city companies, such as insurance intermediary the BGL Group, the Norwich and Peterborough Building Society, the Thomas Cook Group, Perkins Engines and fresh food supplier Produce World.

But such success is fragile – especially in the tough economic climate that has overtaken us since the onset of the credit crunch.

Peterborough's business success needs to be jealously guarded and politicians would do well to take note of Mr Frost's comments and ensure they create the right environment for business to flourish.