CITY of York Council leader Coun Andrew Waller was wearing his most welcoming “come to York” smile when he visited a business centre promoting links between Holland and the north of England.

The centre, set up in Manchester by the Dutch Embassy is seeking to promote regional links with Dutch companies investing in the UK.

Coun Waller said: “I was flying the flag and I discerned that there was a lot of common business causes.

“Like us they have companies involved in renewable energy, biosciences and IT – a perfect fit with Science City York.

“The Dutch also represent the second largest national group of visitors to York - so the potential is huge.”

He invited Angelique Meyer, chief representative of the Netherlands Business Support office in Manchester to visit York this summer to give businesses the opportunity to discuss how they could mutually help one another.

Coun Waller will also be taking her on a tour of the Science Park and other business locations in the city.

Meanwhile, he urges York businesses who are interested in Dutch links to contact him by phoning the Guildhall at (01904) 551550.