Entertaining thoughts of Yorkshire means big business for company

Temple Roberts, based in Harrogate, was founded by Emma Ramply and Shan Robinson in 2008 to develop arts-based events in Yorkshire.

They had both worked on hospitality projects around the world, including Euro 2004 in Portugal.

Over the last two years, Temple Roberts has been involved in a number of events at Ripley Castle, near Harrogate, including a Jools Holland concert and Sprite Productions' outdoor Shakespeare festival.

The company is also developing a White Rose Winter Festival at Ripley, which will feature classical music and run from December 1 to December 4 this year.

Ms Robinson said yesterday: "We are on target to turn over 320,000 this year with Temple Roberts and White Rose Festivals events combined, and our projected figures for next year show a turnover of 455,000.

"We have only really experienced this market in a state of recession. It has worked in our favour, as we have been even more sensitive to the market from the outset, introducing events and artists which carry wide appeal while keeping our tickets and hospitality prices low

"We have seen a marked increase across the board in ticket and hospitality sales in the last couple of months, which is partly due to repeat business and increased awareness, but also people seem to be

more spontaneous and are booking

earlier.

"Yorkshire is becoming an increasingly important market for national firms who have historically focused their client entertaining and event activities around London.

"One client said that some of their most valuable private clients were now based in Yorkshire, and their focus is now on sourcing regional event opportunities."