Businesswoman and author Sahar Hashemi, co-founder of the Coffee Republic, the UK’s first major coffee shop chain, is to visit Bradford to inspire would-be entrepreneurs.

She will speak at an event for people interested in setting up a franchise. The event is being run next month by Bradford Kickstart, the Council’s enterprise support body.

The free event, organised in partnership with Business Link Yorkshire, will be the district’s biggest franchising fair on Saturday April 4, in the exhibition hall at the Abundant Life Conference Centre, Bradford.

It will include a range of franchising opportunities. The featured businesses are all members of the British Franchise Association. Free seminars will also be presented on topics including access to finance.

To book a place at the or for further information, call the information line: (0800) 953 9503 or visit: bradfordkickstart.com.