WE ALWAYS seem to be hearing about the exodus of young people from Dales communities.

Declining services, poor connectivity and large distances between towns and villages are all obstacles to overcome – so it is heartening this week to hear about two very different projects: one of which is championing other businesses, and the other has been set up by two brothers returning to the Dales after moving away.

Ben and Adam Spence grew up on their parents' farm in Aysgarth but both moved away to pursue careers outside of farming when they left school.

But now as adults, they have moved back, along with Ben's wife Sam, and are determined to make sure the business remains a success.

The family are this weekend launching a new mobile milk vending service – a first for the Dales and the mobile aspect is possibly even a national first.

The Home Farmer will tour around Wensleydale villages seven days a week, allowing customers to self-serve fresh whole milk.

The family hope to make their own cheese in time. We wish them all the very best with the new venture.

Sharon Davis on the other hand grew up away from the Dales, but moved to Hawes with her husband three years ago.

Mrs Davis has set up a business as a PR consultant but she also wanted to help other businesses to network and support each other. The Dales Business Women network was born while she was still pregnant, and now it is going from strength to strength.

A network of women inspiring other women can only be something of great value.