THREE business experts have been questioned on how Hambleton council can improve relations with firms in the area.

They were questioned by members of the council's finance and resources overview and scrutiny committee as part of a review into how the authority can work with businesses.

David Porter and Phil Waite from Yorkshire Forward and Business Link chief executive Helen West provided suggestions to the panel as to how businesses could be helped.

"We are grateful to the three witnesses for giving us the benefit of their experience," said committee chairman Councillor John Smith.

"What we learned will certainly help us to develop an improvement plan."

Coun Smith said committee members now want to look into why young residents who, having had a good education locally, are having to move away from the area to find work.

Members of local chambers of trade and individual businesses are also being asked for their views.