STOP whingeing and get moving.

That was the stinging message last night from Chris White, ex-managing director of Nestl Rowntree to nearly 300 business people gathered at the York Racecourse for the 2005 Evening Press Business Awards.

The tough-talking New Zealander remained tight-lipped about his sudden departure after two years as boss of 3,000 York workers, and what he was going to do next.

"I resigned from Nestl to try something else. Unfortunately, due to contracts, I am not able to tell you what my new role is going to be," he said.

But he used his platform as guest speaker at the awards to praise some aspects of York, but sharply criticised others, suggesting that more action was needed.

He called for more good restaurants, high-quality entertainment - "dare I say, even a casino?" - and an airport at Elvington.

"There's a lot of solid evidence to show the positive impact on cities that airports bring, in terms of growing the local economy.

"Our low-cost entry to airports is Elvington, and year by year, that option disappears as the runway deteriorates. I say, do it."

At present, tourists either had to arrive by train - "and it ain't a great service" - or had to drive, which was not easy.

"And if you are worried about the noise, then soundproof the houses in the flight-path. Plus, think of the business investment we could attract."

As chairman of Yorkshire Science For Government, he said: "When you look at all the top-quality universities in Yorkshire, and then how few students stay here after graduating, and the fact that we have the lowest research and development spend in the UK, you have to ask - are we giving ourselves a chance?"

He also appealed for more businesses to back York City football club. Only Nestl and the council had contributed within York. Even the team shorts were

sponsored by an Israeli company because no one local was interested.

"You could say that the team performs badly, so that is no surprise, but

as leaders in York you should be saying, 'how can I change this situation?'"

He urged business people to call the club, and get involved.

"So the message I want to leave you with is, stop whingeing and get off your backside."

Updated: 11:16 Friday, November 18, 2005