THE founder of a craft business with a multi-million pound turnover will open an exhibition on Thursday.

Dozens of businesses will attend the DL Expo, at The Northern Echo Arena, in Darlington, on Thursday (May 1).

It will be opened by Sara Davies, founder of Coundon-based business Crafter’s Companion.

Award winning entrepreneur Sara has grown her business to employ more than 40 people in the UK and now has offices worldwide.

Patrick Masheder, Chairman of Darlington Business Club, which is hosting the event, said: “We are really proud to have Sara open the third and largest DL Expo.

“Sara is a passionate advocate of buying locally. She puts her money where her mouth is.

“When many companies would have been tempted to move production to China, Sara kept it local and that’s inspiring.”

The DL Expo is the largest business exhibition for companies with a DL postcode. 80 businesses will be exhibiting.

There is a food hall with local food producers and the event will include seminars from business leaders.

Business people and the general public are invited to attend and meet the buyers and sellers.