Further evidence of a mini-revival in Richmond's economy will come when another new shop opens on Saturday.

There was concern when Captain Travel, in Finkle Street, and the cobblers in the town's Trinity Square announced closures within days last month.

The news was compounded by the announcement that Richmondshire District Coun-cil was considering relocating to a business park at Colburn.

However, new small businesses have been plugging some of the gaps left by those pulling out, including a fine art gallery, and coffee bar and bistro in Finkle Street.

The Silver Shop is expecting to launch in Rosemary Lane within weeks, the same street where PR agency Jackie Mackenzie and Associates is now based after taking over artist Mackenzie Thorpe's old studios.

Hurley's Antiques, in Newbiggin, is the next new business to open its doors, trading to a specialist market in collectables, such as art pottery, and a range of antique fabrics, including silk brocade, Georgian curtains, Chinese silk wall hangings, and French tapestries dating from the 17th Century.

"I wish them every success," said Mike Pattison, chairman of the Richmond Business and Tourism Association. "Hopefully, the shop will attract tourists, as well as adding an interesting dimension to the town's services."