Bosses at new Bradford business hub Gumption say the centre is set for expansion in 2008 after unveiling a new centre manager.

Lydia Pearce has been with Gumption since it opened in the summer and is now stepping into the role of centre manager, a move which will allow company directors and founders David Robertson-Brown and John Sims the opportunity to concentrate on growing the company.

Miss Pearce has previously worked for Bradford Chamber and Think Business at Bradford University.

She said: "I first came across Gumption when working for Think Business at Bradford University and its business plan stood out by a mile from the rest and I knew then that I wanted to be part of it and work here."

Mr Robertson-Brown said: "The move allows me and my fellow director John Sims to concentrate on expanding the business, by opening new centres and providing more facilities and services, safe in the knowledge the day-to-day running of the centre here in Bradford is in safe hands."

Gumption offers a wide-range of services such as a virtual address and a virtual office to give start-up and growth businesses more credibility, modern office suites, hot-desks, conference facilities, a networking club, a business cafe and extensive help with grant applications.