IT was a case of fighting wire with WiRE.

When Sarah Manby's dog accessory business went to the wire, it was saved by WiRE Women in Rural Business.

Sarah's venture, Mango Mutt, based at her home in Wayside Avenue, Harrogate, and inspired by Murphy, her pet labrador, went through tough times when she spent all her marketing budget on ineffective ways of promoting her internet-based sales.

Then Sarah joined WiRE. She said: "They have been a fabulous boost not only to myself, but also my business. They showed me that there is so much help out there for women and business in our region.

By attending WiRE's free workshops on IT, marketing and public relations he regained her confidence "and made some great friends and new customers along the way."

Now, with sales up by 80 per cent, Sarah has been nominated for the Women In Enterprise title in The Press Business Awards 2006.

Mango Mutt was created in June 2004 when Sarah set out to find something different for Murphy to wear on his walks. She discovered wonderful collars made from non-itchy hemp, which was 100 pr cent natural, biodegradable, hypoallergenic and machine washable.

With her background in sales and marketing, Sarah was convinced that she could launch a website selling accessories for canines, including chewable stuffed toys and comfy beds.

Now, with her new-found understanding of self-promotion, Mango Mutt has received widespread media coverage.

She said: "My mantra is learn from the past, plan for the future and above all, believe in yourself anything is possible."