BUSINESS owners in neighbouring towns are uniting to promote what the area has to offer.

A new Chamber of Trade has been set up for Malton and Norton, bringing together a number of different previous organisations.

“The aim is to provide a louder voice for all businesses in the Malton and Norton area, which they have not had for many years,” said chaiman Richard Horsewood.

“Our motto is ‘Outward awareness, inward investment’ and to promote what we have to offer here.”

He said that with about 400 businesses in the area it was important they worked together to support each other.

“We want to communicate between the different retailers, shops, service providers and larger companies to let them know what is happening and how we can work together,” he said.

“The problem with smaller businesses and different groups is that there are lots of voices whereas we want to show the potential of having one combined group.”

The new chamber also hopes to secure funding to promote local businesses and community groups, as well as carry out improvements to the town.