What could be done locally to boost business?
There could be easier access to support for small businesses. I got in touch with
North Yorkshire Council about grants for leisure businesses but I didn't hear anything. I was bounced around different departments but I'm still waiting!
Best and worst things about running a business from Harrogate?
For me, the worst is that I'd like to expand the business, but I can't find suitable premises. There are lots of offices and large industrial units, but not many light industrial units in between. Every so often I'll see one, but every time it turns out it's been bought by a developer to turn into something else.
The best thing is that I like the community in Harrogate. I'm terrible at social media, so my business survives on word-of-mouth. Everybody in Harrogate and Knaresborough seems to know everybody else in Harrogate and Knaresborough, so once you put something out there, people talk and tend to find out about it.
What are your business plans for the future?
I'd love to expand. We offer children's classes and birthday parties, but we don't have the space to accommodate them all. I also want to get into primary schools, doing taster days. We did it last year, introducing children at
Grove Road Primary School to the pole, hoop, hammock and ground skills, and they loved it.
I think it's really important that children learn that exercise isn't just about changing your body
– you should also do it because it's fun and it's good to move.What do you like to do in your time off?
What's 'time off'?! I like to run around after my children, and when I'm not doing that, I'm really very boring
– I like doing DIY or training.
Then again, if there's any chance in hell I can get to a spa, I'm gone
– you won't see me for dust!Best place to eat and drink locally?
Thug Sandwich Company is the best place in North Yorkshire, if not the country. Everything seems to taste amazing
– I don't know how they do it. I'm a picky eater, but they mix different flavours together that you would think would work, but they do. I also like how cheeky the owners are.
Another good place is
Tilly Peppers on Cold Bath Road
– it's really nice to be able to take a toddler in without fear of upsetting anyone!This is the latest in a regular series of weekly Business Q&A features. If you'd like to suggest someone in business in the Harrogate district for this feature, drop us a line at contact@thestrayferret.co.uk.
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