Almost 90% of businesses in the UK are confident that their firm will survive the recession, according to research by Clydesdale Bank.

The survey revealed that 89% of business managers are confident their company will survive the recession - with almost a third 100% certain they will make it through.

Despite the downturn the research also showed that less than a third of companies have seen a reduction in business during the recession.

"These figures are promising and show that businesses are beginning to regain confidence. This is a positive sign - where confidence exists growth often follows," said Mike Williams of Clydesdale Bank.