More than 220 women (and one man) will descend on Culloden this Saturday (9th November) to attend a special business conference.

The free event, which has been organised by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and sponsored by the Bank of Scotland, is aimed at providing valuable advice and information for women who are either already in their own business or thinking of starting one.

Brian Weaver, of HIE's growing businesses group, will brief delegates on the advice and support available through the network of ten local enterprise companies based throughout the Highlands and Islands.

He said he was delighted with the response.  "Clearly we anticipated that an event like this would be of considerable interest to business-minded women in the Highlands and Islands area, but we have been quite taken aback at the level of up-take so far.  This is very encouraging and demonstrates that there is a strong and genuine interest out there among women who are thinking about either starting or expanding their own business.  This event is about fostering that enthusiasm and giving them the confidence to do so.  We also want to reassure delegates that the local enterprise companies are there to help, and can provide advice and support, not just financial and not just at the point of starting up, but at any stage of their business development."

There are still a few places left at the free conference, which takes place at Culloden Academy, and bookings should be made by calling 08000 32 80 80.