SKIPTON businessman Andrew Mear has been named new chairman of the Business Improvement District (BID).

Traders voted earlier this year to support a second, five-year term of the Skipton BID, which supports and finances a number of events and initiatives in the town.

The BID, funded by a levy put on Skipton business rate payers, will have at least an annual budget of £150,000 at its disposal.

Mr Mear, owner of the High Corn Mill, said: "The successful vote to renew the BID ensures that Skipton BID is able to play a full part in the economic development of Skipton, and I am very pleased the board has seen fit to appoint me as chairman in these exciting times."

He replaces David Wathen, BID chairman since its start five years ago, who stood down at the start of its second term.

Richard Trinder, of Selestial Ltd, and Dav id Roberts, of Hetties Cafe Bistro, have joined the BID board for a second term.

And Mary Arber has been appointed BID manager.

Ms Arber, who has a commercial and legal background, will be responsible for the day to day management and implementation of the BID's five year plan.