YOUNG entrepreneur Kate Walton expects her business to grow by 70 per cent over the next year after finding success in the designer handbag market.

The 25-year-old launched her HaveToLove store in Gosforth, Newcastle, in September, selling a selection of handmade bags, accessories and tailored garments.

She has already made a positive impression on the UK fashion scene, with celebrities such as Girls Aloud singer Cheryl Tweedy showcasing her designs.

Peaches Geldof, daughter of Bob Geldof and Paula Yates, also supported her work at the recent Grazia Women's Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, where Ms Walton was commended for her talent and expertise.

The Northumbria University graduate said: "I'm delighted with the success HaveToLove has had only three months after we opened and I am more than confident that the business will continue to grow steadily, well into next year.

"The detailed research I carried out about the fashion market in Newcastle revealed that there is a growing demand for high-specification, bespoke fashion pieces."

She received business start-up advice and guidance from Northumbria University's Enterprise Campus team.

The team provides support to students and graduates wanting to start their own businesses.

"Enterprise Campus became an essential source of advice and support when I set up," she said.

Ms Walton added: "Not only did it provide me with crucial marketing materials in the first few months, I have also been on the receiving end of professional public relations and communication consultancy support."