More than half those surveyed by the chamber of commerce said they expected their turnover to improve in the coming year, despite seeing a fall in sales and custom in the past three months.

Northamptonshire Chamber's latest quarterly economic survey of 97 companies shows that while many have seen a fall in workforce numbers, there are tentative signs that things could be improving.

The number of manufacturing firms reporting increased sales has risen from 10 per cent to 30 per cent.

Paul Griffiths, chief executive of Northamptonshire Chamber, welcomed the findings, saying: "This is much more positive news for the county.

"Full recovery will still be a way off but this progress is very welcome."

The survey results were echoed by several business leaders across north Northamptonshire and by firms in the area.

John Wills, owner of Wills department store in Rushden and chairman of the town's Chamber of Trade, said he had noticed an increase in the number of shoppers.

He said: "Certainly in Rushden, there's about four sets of scaffolding up for refurbishments so people are still investing in the town centre.

"I don't think the days of seeing empty shops will come to an end immediately but there's been some improvements.

"Every little helps so the message is, support your local shops."

A third of the services industry – which included hotels, retail or real estate – reported orders and advance bookings have increased since March.

The British Chambers of Commerce had said the worst of the recession is over but is wary of talk of a recovery.

Etta Turner, landlady of The Three Cocks pub in Kettering, said she was starting to get back on an even keel.

She said: "My trade has picked up in the last month and a half.

"I don't think people are panicking as much as they were six months ago. March and April were the worst months and I was getting concerned – it's been the most difficult period I've faced in 20 years.

"But I'm feeling positive for the future – there's no point feeling any other way."

Angela Palmiero, co-owner of Palmichael restaurant in Burton Latimer, said the worst period they experienced was over Christmas and New Year.

She said: "We haven't been too badly affected but it depends what profession you're in."

However, Gloria Ellenton, co-chairman of the Corby Business Group, said some firms still feel in limbo, with fears there could be a knock-on effect from the closure of other companies.

She said: "Businesses are either flat out or really struggling. There doesn't seem to be a pattern. It's not like any recession we have seen before.

"Some companies expecting to improve; some are expecting not to."