OVER 50 businesses travelled wintry lanes to attend the inaugural Ruby Business Network event at Roadford Lakeside last Thursday night.

With guest speaker Thomas Store from Envision on hand to advise on how best to prove green credentials, and the presentation of the first Ruby Business Award to George Ridge from Braddon Cottages, together with a series of bite-size Ruby Business intros and refreshments, there was plenty on offer to keep people talking.

George Ridge was nominated as the winner of the Ruby Business Award for the innovation and pioneering spirit demonstrated at his self-catering ­business, Braddon Cottages.

By installing a wood fuel heating system that provides heat to a series of properties across a large site, and implementing and managing woodland to provide fuel, he has in effect secured his future heating needs with zero carbon emission.

With Ruby Co-ordinator Tom Dixon in the chair, he concluded the meeting by setting out the challenges for the future, especially with respect to current funding.

He said: "With the six year track record and the hard work, good will and commitment that has bought the Ruby Country project this far, the challenge is to secure the future. With bids coming together, it is imperative that local organisations write their letters of support, so show the clear support that has been demonstrated over the years."

Richard Reid, speaking on behalf of the Ruby Business Network, said: "This has been a superb evening, but more than anything it demonstrates the level of commitment and need for the voice and identity that Ruby Country provides."

He echoed the comments of Tom by adding: "It is critical that a constructive and sustainable way forward be found for Ruby. This is the time to nail your colours to the mast and to get involved — we need volunteers, ideas, support and of course resources."

To get involved in helping Ruby Country navigate the next steps into the future, contact the office at Cookworthy Forest Centre on 01409 221896, or email [email protected]">[email protected].