A RICHMOND bistro has celebrated its first year in business with a special menu and after dinner speakers.

Sisters-in-law Vicky and Sam Booth opened Frenchgate 29 on March 31 last year, and the business has proved a big hit with customers.

Using their experience from working at Lewis and Cooper in Northallerton, they couldn’t resist the opportunity to work for themselves when the lease for Frenchgate 29 became available.

Vicky Booth said: “It’s been a lot of fun. We’ve really enjoyed the last year, creating new recipes and experimenting in the kitchen with food.

“The best part of the job has been doing it all ourselves and getting to know our customers.”

Sam Booth said: “To celebrate, we’ve added some specials to the menu, and put up banners and balloons. We also baked a special birthday cake.”

Opening on evenings is a major part of the women’s plans for the future.

Vicky said: “We’ll be open for evenings more frequently, and we have some guest speakers. We have a medium lined up, and a talk from a wine merchant.

“Other than that we’d like to continue as we are – being here for our customers.”