FROM New York to North Yorkshire - international fashion designer Ben de Lisi was in the county yesterday to launch his latest venture.

Since his debut show in 1995, Ben has gone from strength to strength and his clothes adorn some of the world's famous beauties, including Kate Winslet, Liz Hurley, Angelica Huston, Rachel Weisz and Jemima Khan.

But now he's turned his attention to something altogether different - the world of bathroom design. And the launch took place in Harrogate yesterday.

The unveiling was the culmination of two years' work with Abacus Direct, which has its headquarters at Copgrove, Harrogate. The project brings together a collection of modern baths, basins, bidets, toilets and radiators in what is a first for the designer.

Abacus managing director Ian Pattison said the connection with Mr de Lisi dates back to when they worked together on apartment design.

"We found that we had the same approach to our work - style, innovation, attention to detail and, above all, quality. They are important elements to us both," he said.

"The launch of the Ben de Lisi range is the result of two years' of intensive development and is a very exciting milestone in our company's history."

Mr de Lisi added: "The bathrooms are pure in line and rich in detail, hard-working and never over-stated. That is what I am known for as a designer. It is why I got involved. I do not see it as an unusual step.

"A good designer can turn his hand to anything. You see the world through designers' eyes. You know what is going to be successful, whether it is a chair, a bath or an evening gown."