INCREASING numbers of visitors are flocking to Richmond as more shops set up in the town.

The news comes amid concerns that many North Yorkshire market towns are losing customers to larger shopping centres.

Ken Allinson, of The Richmond Town Centre Forum, said: "There has been a big increase in interest in the town, with more varied shops wanting to set up, which will in turn attract more shoppers and tourists."

He said the boom was due in part to the forum's recent efforts to promote Richmond as an attractive town for retailers.

Mr Allinson said: "We had a market town health check a number of months ago and drew up an action plan to tackle the town's weaknesses.

"People wanted to see different and new shops in Richmond aside from the many charity shops here.

"We worked with a consultancy group to produce a glossy brochure to promote the town and sent it out to a host of potential retailers."

He said the feedback from the brochure, which was distributed earlier this year, was very positive.

A number of new shops are due to establish themselves in Richmond. One will specialise in teddy bear gifts.

It is not only new business prospering in Richmond, many established retailers are undergoing expansion or renovation plans.

Kathy Thomas, manager of The Edinburgh Woollen Mill, said: "Business has been fantastic for us recently and we have high hopes for the future.

"We are investing in our adjoining coffee shop, providing new equipment and staff training."

The forum believes the interest in Richmond has been partly inspired by a survey in a recent Country Life magazine, which identified the town as one of the best places to live in the country.

Mr Allinson said: "I think retailers are beginning to realise the enormity of what Richmond has to offer.

"It has a sound business location only four miles from the A1, it has beautiful architecture, and a local population of 50,000 that needs all kinds of services."