THE imaginative conversion of the derelict stable courtyard on the Aske estate at Richmond has won a major regional award.

The scheme has provided more than 20,000 sq ft of office space and is already home to 12 companies employing more than 70 staff.

At a dinner at the Royal Armouries in Leeds, the stables were named best entry in the commercial category of the inaugural Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors' Pro Yorkshire awards, in recognition of its contribution to the rural economy.

The judges said the sheer quality of the scheme had created a very desirable and highly successful commercial environment. It had not only transformed an area of dereliction but had also become a real asset for the economy of North Yorkshire.

The awards were launched this year by the Yorkshire and Humber region of the RICS.

Miss Mhairi Mercer of Aske Stables is seen, above, receiving the award with, from left, Mr Bob David, RICS regional board chairman; Mr Barrie Birch, the scheme's architect; Mr David Aynesworth of Rural Solutions; Mr Martin Needler of EC Harris, sponsors of the award; and Mr Chris Johnstone, RICS regional director.