CASH from the regional development agency, Yorkshire Forward, is to be invested in a new directory which Richmond's business community hopes will help with recovery from the foot-and-mouth crisis.

The £8,000 grant will cover the cost of the guide, to be included first on the Richmond Business Association's website, accessed via www.richmond.org.uk

However, hard copies will follow in the new year and will be distributed to 10,000 homes in the area.

Association chairman Dr Mike Nicholls said: "I hope the directory will be kept handy in the house, most likely by the telephone, so that it is the reference of first resort whenever a service is required or a purchase considered.

"This will not only encourage residents to try local businesses first, but the availability of the data on the web will encourage investment into the area because its business infrastructure can be seen so easily."

Anyone who requires further information can leave a message on the association's answer service, which can be reached on (01748) 821623