A VETERAN of the North Yorkshire hospitality trade has teamed up with a computer expert to launch a website specifically aimed at B&B owners.

Chris Parkin, of the award-winning Carlton Lodge, at Helmsley, linked up with software designer Tom Cone to set up bandbowner.com

The specific site, which the pair say is the first of its kind, has been launched as a troubleshooting and marketing device for bed-and-breakfast businesses.

Chris came up with the idea as he felt guesthouse owners needed to know what was going on and what help they could receive from the Government to help keep trade ticking over.

He said: "I obtained information from the authorities I know and sent out an email to the B&Bs telling them what to do and where they could get help and answers.

"I realised this was the quickest and most efficient way of keeping in touch - more immediate than letters and more convincing than the telephone."

He said the website would help small businesses combat the growing problem of red tape.

Chris, in the trade for 36 years, including stints at high-flying restaurants, said: "You have to now digest up to 17 pieces of paper if you want to set up a commercial bed-and-breakfast business.

"Our site will provide good advice to anyone wanting to cut through it all as it is obtained from the people living the life."

Chris, who helped form the Ryedale Tourist Association, hopes the new site will become a forum and voice for the industry.

Tom said: "The website is full of ideas and information to improve the profitability of businesses."

Updated: 09:23 Tuesday, November 02, 2004