HIGH growth business sectors in York and North Yorkshire can now call on support from three specialist Business Link advisers.

Martin Walsh, Bill Powrie and Roger Benson, of Business Link York and North Yorkshire, have been appointed as the first-ever "cluster co-ordinators" for the digital, food and drink and bioscience businesses in the county. These sectors, in addition to chemicals and advanced engineering and metals, are the five "clusters", or key business sectors identified by Yorkshire Forward as providing the greatest potential for growth, job creation and improved economic performance in the area.

John Guy, head of adviser services at Business Link York and North Yorkshire, said: "Bill, Roger and Martin were hand-picked for their capability and expertise in these three key sectors.

"The cluster approach will not only provide an opportunity for businesses within the cluster to be aware of how they can benefit, but will also allow advisers a deeper insight into what is happening within their cluster."

Bill Powrie, cluster co-ordinator for food and drink, said: "It is vital to be at the heart of Yorkshire Forward's key strategy, working closely with clusters and ensuring that advisers and clients are aware of all the opportunities available to them."

Martin Walsh, a cluster co-ordinator has worked with businesses in the digital sector - electronics (including telecoms), ICT, creative, cultural, media, print, packaging and design businesses - since 1996.

In Roger Benson's eight years experience working with bioscience companies in North Yorkshire, he has personally helped them to attract more £4 million in grants.

For more information from Business Link York and North Yorkshire, phone 01904 686000.

Updated: 10:32 Wednesday, October 13, 2004