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Nov 2022

Last Updated: 15/11/2022

Business

Business Breakfast: New business networking group set up in Harrogate

by Calvin Robinson

| 16 Nov, 2022

In this morning's briefing, we have news on a new business networking group in Harrogate and a Ripon company manager celebrates 30 years in post.

Steve Simmonds, one of the founders of 1 and 3 Networking.

Business Breakfast is sponsored by Harrogate law firm Truth Legal.

A new networking group has been set up for businesses in Harrogate.

1 and 3 Networking was founded by local businessmen Steve Simmonds and Graeme Fountain to help connect business owners and develop contacts across the district and beyond.

The networking group holds informal breakfast meetings at Oakdale Golf Club, Harrogate, on the first and third Thursday of each month.

Mr Simmonds, who is a data specialist, said:

“We have set out to launch a simple networking proposition for businesses in and around Harrogate. There are no membership fees and businesses simply register online and pay £10 for each session they would like to attend.

“The idea is to help businesses of all sizes make new contacts at the meeting and develop business connections.”

Graeme Fountain, a local business consultant, added:

“Business people who come along to 1 and 3 Networking are invited to provide an informal presentation, for a couple of minutes, on who they are and what they do as a business.

“They also explain how other members of the group can help them, by providing introductions to suitable clients or potential business partners.

“We know that local businesses want to help others thrive and this is the perfect opportunity to do that.”

Businesses wishing to attend pay £10 for each session, which includes a light breakfast and coffee.

For more information, visit the 1 and 3 Networking website here.

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Econ Engineering manager celebrates three decades in post

A senior Econ Engineering manager has been recognised for this long service to the business, which has so far spanned three-and-a-half decades.

Colin Thewitt was 16 when he joined the Ripon company as a YTS (Youth Training Scheme) trainee.

He started in the in the drawings office, making detailed drawings of the parts needed to create Econ’s legendary gritters.

Now, he was made factory manager in 2020 and is in charge of a team of 140 people.

Colin said:

“When I joined Econ I had no idea I would still be here 35 years later and still enjoying it.

“Engineering is a fantastic career as every day is different. I was lucky to start as a trainee, which is different to being an apprentice.

“I would certainly recommend a traineeship, as being a trainee you learn more specific skills relevant to the job you are doing and industry you want to work in.”

Jonathan Lupton, Econ Engineering director, said:

“It was my father who took Colin under his wing as he clearly saw something in him – and I’m very glad he did.

“Colin is a key part of our business and is highly regarded by his colleagues. And as you would expect from someone who has been here 35 years, he knows the business inside out, and gladly shares his knowledge with those keen to learn from him.”

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Business Breakfast: New business networking group set up in Harrogate

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Econ Engineering manager celebrates three decades in post