SIX women embarked on what could be a new career yesterday, in the beauty therapy business.

The women, aged from 25 to 60, started a week training course covering the practical aspects of the trade, from massage and aromatherapy to manicures and pedicures.

Tutors from North Yorkshire Training and Recruitment Associates (NYTARA) are also covering the administrative side of business, with information technology and forward planning.

NYTARA is working in partnership with North Yorkshire's Government-backed RecruitAble scheme, which gives free training to disabled adults and people with long-term health problems.

The scheme has already achieved success, and NYTARA is one of the key partners in the project.

Its principal, Nicola Buscell, said training could open up a world of opportunity for people with disabilities.

"Disabled people have excellent skills and abilities which can be used to develop a new career," she said.

RecruitAble personal advisor Andy Watson said the course would build up self-esteem and confidence as well as giving basic training in beauty therapy.

He said: "We hope to be able to do this course again in the future.

"The courses are very professionally run, and those attending work at their own pace and are given career guidance."