THE Women Do Business programme will be running a free one-day conference for women complementary practitioners at the Ockment Centre on Thursday, May 5.

The conference is open to any woman in the area who has, or is thinking about starting up their own complementary therapy business.

The day will offer support and ideas for gaining and staying in touch with clients, and how to remain successful in today's challenging economy. There will also be a chance to make contacts and sample other therapies.

Project co-ordinator Jan Spencer said: 'With our economy here in the local area facing constant challenges, many local women are rethinking their future employment plans and deciding to start their own business.

'Complementary therapy is becoming ever more popular. Many of those who already have their own practice live in rural areas and can feel isolated without contact from other people in the same sector.

'Women Do Business has been providing support for complementary therapists across Devon for several years and this conference will enable everyone to meet up and gain support for themselves and their business.

'We are really pleased to be running it in Okehampton.'

Women Do Business is run by the Community Council of Devon with funding from the Greater Dartmoor LEAF and Devon County Council.

Full details of the day's event programme are available on http://www.womendobusinessdevon.org.uk">www.womendobusinessdevon.org.uk or by calling 01392 382403.