A TRADE show and discount promotions are among the projects being pitched to help boost business in Selby.

Business leaders from the district have gathered for the first time this year to outline their vision for the area.

The meeting came only months after the chairman of the Selby Chamber of Trade and Commerce, David Fieldsend, warned the group was in danger of being closed due to the apathy of its members.

Fifteen chamber members attended, compared with previous gatherings which attracted between none and eight people last year.

New ways to promote businesses in the town was the focus of the latest talks.

Steven Swift, the marketing and promotions officer with the chamber, said the gathering showed promise.

He said: “We’re really pleased with how well the first meeting has gone. It’s the sign of really positive times ahead in the business community within Selby.

“We’re becoming a proactive chamber that will work with the businesses and it is all about increasing relationships as well as raising the profile of businesses with the public to drive more footfall into the town.”

Last September, a meeting of the Chamber was organised to allow businesses to voice their views to council leader Mark Crane, but only three of the 91 chamber members confirmed they would attend.

At the most recent meeting, members questioned the guest speaker from HMRC, and discussed initiatives for the town including a discount service designed to improve relationships between businesses, and a window sticker campaign to make the public more aware of the chamber.

Members also announced a trade show had been booked this summer, to take place at the Riccall Regen Centre on August 10.

Mr Swift said he could be contacted to discuss membership of the Chamber, or if anyone has any questions on how the group could help their business.

To get in touch, email info@selbychamber.co.uk or phone 0845 9013565.