Hazel Curtis has been in sales for over 20 years, with experience in the office furniture industry, having worked for an office seating manufacturer and developed a strong interest in workplace space planning.

Former retail sales manager Angela Millington was proprietor of an outdoor clothing and walking boots shop in the Yorkshire Dales for eight years before becoming involved in the office furniture industry three years ago.

The business has got off to a flying start since launching in Harrogate after securing its first order to supply furniture to the value of £40,000.

Hazel Curtis said: “We are advisors and consultants in corporate interiors but in this climate we are realistic and happy to work on projects of any size - home office to head office."

NIDD DESIGN was launched by Nigel Ormondroyd after he was made redundant in February.

The new business offers an architectural design service based in Harrogate and specialising in residential and small commercial sectors, undertaking projects across the Yorkshire region.

Nigel said his company could take on new build, extension or renovation projects and assist in selecting suitable contractors.

CRACKNELL’S Garage has been named Motoring Winner by consumer recommendation website Which? Local in its Business of the Year Awards.

The car mechanic, based in Harrogate, was voted for by Which? members as part of an award scheme that aims to use customer recommendations to promote reliable businesses.

Pete Tynan, from Which? Local, said: “With extremely helpful and competent staff, Cracknell’s was praised for always going the extra mile for its customers.”

THE ALTERNATIVE BOARD, the Harrogate-based peer support and coaching organisation which was officially launched at the Yorkshire International Business Convention, has appointed Suzanne Bell as marketing manager.

Suzanne was previously a business development manager for the northern region of chartered accountants PKF, latterly specialising in key account management and client service initiatives.

Jo Clarkson, TAB’s operations director, said: “I have known Suzanne for about 20 years, since she first joined PKF, and believe she is the ideal person to drive our marketing as TAB expands its national network throughout the UK.”

Suzanne added: “I am very excited at being part of a new enterprise and I’m looking forward to contributing to the company’s successful development.”