A NEW firm is being formed to steer a North Yorkshire community towards a brighter future.

A dozen people will form the Richmond Town Centre Company, which will work to win grants for the area, to create new jobs and encourage existing businesses to grow.

However, board members have not yet been chosen and nominations are being sought from the public.

Membership will include a representative from all three tiers of local government, another from the Richmond Business and Tourism Association and one more from the Richmond Partnership.

Others will represent retailing, the professional services, tourism, the town's voluntary organisations, the arts and heritage and community facilities.

One seat remains for a member of the public.

Nominations need to be submitted to the Richmond Town Centre Forum steering group, which meets on Wednesday, January 24, to decide the board.

Application forms can be obtained from town centre manager, Ken Wilson, at Richmondshire District Council's offices at Swale House on Frenchgate.

Further information about the process can also be had by telephoning Richmond Town Centre Forum chairman, Coun Paul Cullen, on (01748) 824150.