The Bradford-based West Yorkshire Euro Info Centre has appointed a new expert to help businesses chase markets in Europe.

Jill Kenning has been recruited as a European business officer to help local companies link up with agents, distributors or joint venture partners.

Jill, 31, said the service will be promoted through the Business Link organisations throughout Yorkshire and Humberside.

A bulletin news sheet will be produced and distributed every month giving small and medium-sized businesses specific information on companies seeking trading partners in the UK.

And local firms will also be able to carry out their own searches for European contracts for a small price.

Councillor Dave Green, Bradford Council's chairman of economic development, said: "This new appointment will help businesses fully exploit markets in the European community and hopefully both safeguard and help to create new jobs.

"Businesses locally will be able to find out details on, say, a company in Italy offering to act as a distributor for their products.

"The European market presents excellent opportunities for go-ahead local companies.

"We want to make sure the business community gains as much help in this area as it needs."

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