Fledging businesses and businesses run from home and which sell online are being urged to take a free stall at Ilkley Business Forum’s Buy Local Fair, on November 16, at the Kings Hall and Winter Gardens.

Vera Woodhead, chairwoman of Ilkley Business Forum said: “The Ilkley Business Forum is here to support and promote businesses of all sizes within the LS29 area. “Whilst we have a number of well established and well known businesses, we are keen to support new and home-based businesses. There are many businesses that are run from kitchen tables or have their stock in the garage and sell them online.

“Our Buy Local Fair is an opportunity for all businesses to showcase, promote and sell their goods to the public and to meet and engage with the locals, visitors and other business owners.”

Victoria Widdup, who set up Sew You after leaving full-time employment to bring up her daughter Grace, will be one business showcased at the event.

Victoria said: “It has been a steep learning curve moving from hobby to business and I have been fortunate to have the support of the Aspiring Women’s Network in Ilkley, which has really given me the confidence to test the market, build my brand and to get my products into shops such as Hand Picked Hall.

“The Buy Local Fair comes at an ideal time of the year when many people are looking for quality handmade gifts for Christmas presents.

“For my first show, I couldn’t have chosen a better venue and location and the footfall that will come through the door gives me a great opportunity to get my name and brand out there to the masses.”

Visitors to The Buy Local Fair will be able to browse and buy local gifts, crafts, food and produce and also pick up expert tips from some of Ilkley’s well known establishments such as Betty’s, Ramus, The Box Tree, 1875 Restaurant and Ilkley Brewery as they participate in live food and drink demonstrations.

There will also be a magician, games and activities to keep the children entertained.

For more information about the Aspiring Women’s network, to join the Forum and take a stall at the event, contact Vera Woodhead on 07990 731840.