A female lawyer is leading the development of a new group devoted to promoting the interests of Bradford’s women entrepreneurs.

Susan Clark, a partner at Bradford-based Last Cawthra Feather, wants the Network for Enterprising Women’s Success (NEWS), to provide practical support for local businesswomen and not be just a social network..

More than 80 women attended the launch of NEWS in November which Susan said proved the need for such a body.

She said: “We are determined NEWS will be an inclusive body and not just for women in dark suits. It will aim to provide help and support for everyone “The aim is not to have just another social organisation. The steering group is working to develop a programme of regular events that will provide training and help to women in the business community.

“Making it inclusive is also a priority, Unfortunately, there are some bodies where women may feel they do not belong. By listening to the feedback and taking on board suggestions we aim to make NEWS relevant and useful.”

Susan has been a director of Bradford Chamber of Commerce, which originated the idea of NEWS, since 2004 and a regularly attended its ladies’ lunch events.

The NEWS steering group held its first meeting earlier this month and will meet every two months at Bradford Chamber’s offices. in Little Germany.

Susan, who also sits on Bradford Chamber’s council the main policy-making group, said: “The steering group will monitor and track the group’s interests and needs and make sure we can stage events and provide support wherever it’s needed.”

Sandy Needham, chamber chief executive, said: “This new body is a result of discussions we’ve been having with business and career women who felt there is a need for a focused support network.”

Members of the steering group include Hannah Howe, Naila Hussain, Fatima Patel, Nina Broadhead and Vera Woodhead.

For more on NEWS, call (01274) 206653 or visit bradfordnews.org.uk.