RURAL businesses could gain valuable advice from a series of special roadshows.

Business Link York and North Yorkshire will stage the events and the first is at Ripley Castle on Wednesday, November 17.

The events will have expert advisers and exhibitors on hand to help anyone either thinking of starting up, or who is already, in business.

"We will run a series of 30-minute 'taster' workshop sessions throughout the day, giving practical advice on key areas of business such as e-marketing and skills development," said George Pye, Business Link head of marketing.

A business which benefited greatly after receiving help and advice from the organisation is Bleikers Smokehouse of Glasshouses, which employs 14 people and produces premium quality smoked fish and meat.

Jane Bleiker, director, said rural businesses faced many challenges, but could get valuable help from the roadshows.

"For us, the road to growth started with attendance at a seminar on marketing and, over the past eight years, Business Link has helped us in many aspects of our development, from e-business to exporting," she said.

The Ripley Castle roadshow runs from 10.30 to 5.30, and will cover farm business advice, starting a business, marketing, customer care, e-marketing, skills development, best practice, Customs and Excise and tax, family business, tourism and environmental issues.

Anyone wishing to attend should contact Business Link York and North Yorkshire on 01904 68600 or visit the web site at www.here4business.co.uk.

Our picture shows George Pye of Business Link York and North Yorkshire, with Jane Bleiker of Bleikers Smokehouse, in the grounds of Ripley Castle, where the first roadshow will be held.