BUSINESS owners across a North Yorkshire district will find their skills put to the test in a new style of networking event.

Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce is hosting Goals, Games and Gadgets, a series of logic, maths and creative challenges to be completed against the clock.

The organisation has previous held three yearly speed networking 'Safaris', but its management committee has decided to try something new – and has already had a strong response to the plans.

Chief executive Sandra Doherty said: "Our Safaris have proved very popular over the years, particularly with new members, as they're a great way to meet a lot of other business owners in one evening.

"This new format of networking meeting is a step up from that: it will help people to get to know each other better, so they feel more comfortable working together in future or making recommendations to other contacts. Participants will work together and share their skills, which will help to build much stronger relationships.

“For the first time, we're opening up the networking meeting to non-members, to give them a chance to meet members in an informal setting. Anyone who is involved in business anywhere in the Harrogate district is invited to join us.”

The meeting takes place at Harrogate International Centre on Kings Road, Harrogate, on Monday, August 8. A buffet will be provided from 5.30pm, with the challenges starting at 6.15pm. For more information, visit harrogatechamber.co.uk.

Attendance is £15 for non-members, including the buffet, and places need to be booked in advance by emailing info@harrogatechamber.co.uk.