The driving force behind two of Harrogate’s
most successful annual business events have announced their retirement at the
end of 2018.
Since 2005, Brian Dunsby OBE and his wife, Beryl, have created and organised
the Yorkshire
Business Market, and, for the last six years, the Harrogate
Christmas Market.
Last year’s Harrogate Christmas Market, held on Montpellier
Hill, saw a 25 per cent increase in visitors on 2016, with a total of 75,000
people passing through.
Mr Dunsby, the former chief executive of Harrogate District Chamber of
Trade, said: “Both Beryl and I have recognised that the time has finally come
for us to retire.
“This decision hasn’t been taken lightly, in fact far from it. However, we
aren’t getting any younger, and whilst we have relished the challenges and
rewards both markets have given us, we now want to enjoy what time we have left
with our children and grandchildren, who all live abroad.”
Brian Dunsby – who was made an OBE in last year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours List
for his services to business and the community – added: “Beryl and I have been
incredibly lucky to have been supported in both events by wonderful teams of
volunteers whose skill and enthusiasm have ensured the successful delivery of
each event.
“Our Perlex office staff have always provided faithful and flexible working to
accommodate the variable nature of these projects. Maggie Hall has actually
worked with us as PA and Event Administrator for over 30 years, whilst Chris
Muir has been our Database Administrator for over 12 years.
“With the Yorkshire Business Market and Harrogate Christmas Market, we have two
ready-made events that each need someone to take over the reins.
“They are both well established and our hope is that they will continue to be
annual fixtures in the Harrogate business and tourism calendars for many years
to come.”
Further information from:
info@HarrogateChristmasMarket.org
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