A NEW networking group has been set up to support independent businesses in part of York.

The 'Thorpe Businesses Get Social' (TBGS) aims to encourage, promote and build businesses in Bishopthorpe, Copmanthorpe and surrounding areas.

Set up by three Copmanthorpe residents - graphic designer Melissa Magson, HR consultant Jo Hammond and brewery owner Andy Herrington - the group was created to provide a more relaxed environment for small businesses to network.

It meets at Ainsty Ales brewery at Acaster Malbis.

Melissa said: "The thought of formal networking and presentations may horrify some people, so we wanted to created a more casual atmosphere for small businesses to get together, exchange ideas and hopefully recommend each other for work."

The group decided to hold the meetings at Ainsty Ales for a more relaxed atmosphere. The location is relevant as the business represents a success story as one of York’s growing independent drinks producers

Despite the relaxed code, however, there is a serious business element underlining their monthly get-togethers, with guest speakers such as the head of Visit York, Sally Greenaway and team members discussing how businesses can be supported in the city and surrounding areas.

Next up will be Torque Law who will be discussing the forthcoming General Data Protection Regulation and what it means to small businesses.

Jo said: "It’s important that we offer businesses something that’s beneficial, and so far our guests have been very accommodating and generally fantastic. We do also give our members chance to present their businesses too, we sang carols with a local voice coach at Christmas, had a gin tasting with The Curious Gin Company recently, and Zen Magic will also perform illusions and talk about body language in our next meeting too."

TBGS meet on the last Thursday of each month at Ainsty Ales. Entry is £5 per person and is by ticket, available on EventBrite.

There is no commitment for anything but to come and meet new people.

At the end of each evening attendees leave with a handful of business cards and new contacts.