A RIPON based business which uses an old department store to rent space to new, small independent businesses has received national recognition.

Wren's has been named by collaborative small business network and advice hub Ingenious Britain as one of its ten “Ingenious Britons” for 2014.

The Ingenious Britons title is given to UK small businesses recognised for the innovative ways in which they have set up and managed their companies.

Wrens, located in Ripon's city centre, uses the department store to help small independent businesses who need low rent short to medium term, to "try out" their new business idea or develop a business without massive start-up overheads.

Mark Butler of Wrens said: "When we starting this wonderful business we didn't anticipate the huge response from small, independent local businesses who have been so supportive.

“Now, by working together, we have developed a strong base for young businesses to flourish. This is a real honour to be selected into the top ten ingenious Britons and without doubt something that just spurs us on to even greater things."