A SCHEME pioneered in Swale to encourage women to set up businesses may be extended across the county. The first celebration of women entrepreneurs, held at the Wyvern Hall in Sittingbourne and sponsored by the Amicus Group, was rated such a great success that organisers believe it will benefit women elsewhere.

Twenty women were presented with certificates of achievement after attending the programme run by Enterprise Direct, based in Faversham. They covered a wide range of enterprises, including apple juice production, gown design, cleaning contracting, beauty therapy, book selling, childcare, gardening for the elderly, theatrical costume and textile design.

Brenda Chester, director of Enterprise Direct, said: "We don't want to just stop here in Swale. This is something that women need and we would like to replicate it elsewhere." She called on business support agencies to recognise that women had "lifestyle balances" to manage and needed a different approach.

Amanda Holdstock, owner of Hempstead House Hotel and Lakes Restaurant at Bapchild, presented the certificates. She said: "In many ways, the world of business is still a man's world, but we can use our feminine charms to our advantage. It may not be politically correct but it's a powerful weapon and sometimes we need all the help we can get."