SMALL rural firms across the region are being offered expert advice on how to develop their businesses following the foot-and-mouth epidemic crisis.

Regional development agency Yorkshire Forward is holding a series of roadshows to offer advice to farmers who are trying to expand or diversify.

The latest event takes place at the Dales Countryside Museum, in Hawes, North Yorkshire, next Tuesday, between 11am and 7pm.

Talks by entrepreneurs will take place in the afternoon and people from Hawes and the surrounding area who are interested in starting their own business can consult experts from organisations including Business Link North Yorkshire, The Prince's Trust and local banks.

Mark Firth, rural renaissance manager for Yorkshire Forward, said: "We have a wide range of business support agencies attending the event.

"They will be on hand throughout the day to answer questions and provide advice."