A MANUFACTURING company in North Yorkshire has pledged its support to the only national opera company outside of London by becoming a business partner of Opera North.

Rillington-based Ellis, which makes cable cleats and exports its products to more than 30 countries world wide, has entered into the partnership after bosses saw it as an "opportunity to highlight the vibrant nature of life, leisure and work in the region".

Richard Shaw, Ellis’ managing director, said: "Opera North, like Ellis and so many other businesses in Yorkshire, is globally respected for its excellence and innovation.

"By becoming a business partner we are proudly pinning our colours to a mast that celebrates and presents the very best of the north of England to a worldwide audience."

Opera North Business Partners is a new membership scheme for business leaders keen to support the diverse artistic, educational and community engagement work of the arts organisation, as well as champion the region and the many benefits that come from doing business with those based in it.

Jo Graham, Opera North’s business development manager, said: "Opera North is a unique cultural and economic asset to Leeds and the wider Northern region.

"It’s a registered charity with a £16 million annual turnover that contributes significantly to the region’s economic and cultural wealth, and is at the forefront of Leeds’ burgeoning international reputation.

“The Business Partner Scheme allows businesses to get closer to the work of the company, while at the same time, joining together to form a formidable and united partnership that presents the north of England in the very best possible light."

Ellis is one of 42 current Opera North Business Partners. Other members include Yorkshire Building Society, Yorkshire Water, KPMG and Arup.