THE best that local retailers have to offer is being celebrated as a group of independent traders team together to host their second annual exhibition.

Last year saw the launch of the York Lifestyle Exhibition as the region’s retailers and businesses in home, garden and leisure united to stage a two day-event.

More than 1,500 attended, with local firms giving tips on how to carry out a spring makeover for homes and gardens, enjoy good food and entertainment and seek ideas for travel.

Following the success of the inaugural event, which saw more than £150,000 raised in direct sales for the businesses involved, the York Lifestyle Exhibition is now returning for 2014.

About 12 independent businesses are behind this year’s event, which is again being staged at Deans Garden Centre, in Stockton-on-the-Forest on February 1 and 2.

The show will feature business offering flooring, interior design, bathrooms, tiling, electrical goods, art, water sports, fireplaces, gardens, cycling, bedrooms, windows, and landscapes.

The exhibitors have decided to support the York Blind and Partially Sighted Society as their chosen charity and hope to be able to hand over at least a £1,000 to support its work. Money will be raised by a prize raffle and winning tickets will be drawn on Sunday 2.

Steve Whitt from Fabric Gallery & Interiors, one of the exhibitors, said: “Following the success of the first exhibition in 2013, it seemed natural that we would return in 2014.

“Now the group behind the exhibition has several new members which will bring a new dimension to the event.

“We are also keen to showcase the quality of products and services available from local independents.

“When you deal with the exhibitors you’ll be talking directly to the experts and the business owners for whom customer service really matters.”

Visitors to the show will be able to experience live demonstrations from experts in their field.

This year the exhibition will also have its very own artist in residence; Edward Waite and Doreen Greenshields will be painting live in the Exhibition Hall.

The show will be opened by local MP Julian Sturdy on Saturday, February 1 at 10.30am.

To pre-register for this event and for further information, visit yorklifestyle.co.uk