FREE online masterclasses are being held to offer support to people starting their own business in York and North Yorkshire.

The sessions for start-ups begin in October, covering all the important aspects of establishing and running a successful business in the first 12 months.

York & North Yorkshire Growth Hub which provides free expertise, support and resources to help businesses grow, is hosting the masterclasses in partnership with Blue Orchid, who deliver business start-up advice and business growth programmes.

Blue Orchid business advisors will be leading the sessions, bringing practical experience and knowledge of how businesses operate in the real world.

Andrew Raby, Growth Hub manager, said: “Ready to start your own business?

Whether you’re working on your first business idea or have recently begun trading, this masterclass is for you.

"Led by experienced business advisors, these free online sessions are crammed with useful information, covering everything from tools to help research ideas to reviewing the best legal structure and understanding start-up costs and business planning.”

Each masterclass is in four parts, running on Monday 12, Tuesday 13, Thursday 15 and Friday 16 October from 9.30am to 12.30pm each day.

The sessions will be held again between November 9 to 13.

They are open to individuals and businesses based in York and North Yorkshire.

Registration in advance is necessary to take part.

Visit the events page at www.ynygrowthhub.com for further details.

York & North Yorkshire Growth Hub is one of 38 Growth Hubs in England.

It’s funded by government and coordinated by the York & North Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership, and provides support and advice to businesses of all sizes.