A TOWN’S business association has adopted its original name.

Members at a recent monthly meeting of the Richmond and Lower Swaledale Business Association (RLSBA), voted unanimously to revert back to its former name of Richmond Business and Tourism Association (RBTA).

Marcia McLuckie, chairman, said: “Our members felt that the Richmond Business and Tourism Association gave a much better description of the area that we cover, while embracing both the business community and tourism, which is so important for the area.

“We work on behalf of businesses in Richmond and the surrounding area, to encourage economic growth.”

The association promotes all aspects of business and tourism for the benefit of the wider community and is consulted by other agencies, including the three councils that cover the district.

It also supports and initiates activities that promote the town and contribute to improving its economic success. These include Welcome to Richmond Yorkshire, the RBTA’s tourism and attractions sub-group; Richmond Walking and Book Festival; Georgefest and the Easter Window competition.

The association’s membership is rising and has already seen a 50 per cent growth. It is encouraging new businesses to join and become involved in continuing to develop a vibrant local economy

Mrs McLuckie said: “This can only be achieved by working together with all the different business sectors. We are all interdependent on each other – if my holiday cottage business does well, this brings people into the town to use the butchers, bakers and greengrocers.

“If these businesses are successful they may need to refurbish, which gives work to builders, plumbers and electricians. These local people will use the cinema, the pubs, theatre and restaurant.

“We are all aiming for the same ends – a thriving market town economy. If we are able to work together, we build the strength to continue to add to what this fantastic town already has to offer its residents and visitors.”

Membership is £45. For more details, email marcia@yorkshirecountryholidays.co.uk or call 01748 825525, or to attend as a guest at the next meeting, which takes place in the chairman’s room at Richmond Station on July 5, at 6pm.