BUSINESSWOMEN from North Yorkshire gathered for the first event at a newly-opened centre.

The Women in Business day was the inaugural conference at the Innovate centre, at Colburn.

More than 25 delegates attended the seminar, which aimed to raise awareness of services available to businesswomen in the region and allow them to share experiences and advice.

Speakers included Elizabeth Guy, from Wensleydale, creator of the award-winning Beth Guy's Little Pies, and Isobel Davies, founder of Farmaround, a Richmond-based organic produce home delivery company.

Ms Davies said: "The event demonstrated the support that is available for any woman who desires to take control of their lives by starting up their own business."

Also on hand with advice on training, funding and business support were representatives of Women in Rural Enterprise (Wire), Women in Enterprise, Darlington College at Catterick, Developing Minds and Business Support and Development.

For details visit www. innovate-colburn.com

The first meeting of the Wire networking group for Richmondshire is at Innovate on September 7, at 6pm.