Train 2000 - The Centre for Women's Enterprise and Employment

Businesswoman Cathy Yu is celebrating Chinese New Year by setting up her new business as the only importer/ wholesaler of Chinese novelty goods in Liverpool.

For three years the Liverpool University MBA graduate has run her own business, China Red, selling Chinese gifts in St John's Shopping Centre and County Road, Walton. A role she found became increasingly difficult as her buying trips involved lengthy journeys across the country.

Cathy, who was born in Liverpool's twin town, Shanghai said:

"My business is a seven-day-a-week operation but the hours I was putting in with the travelling was difficult. The problem was there were no wholesalers in Liverpool importing traditional Chinese goods.

I decided to do my own research which was helped by the fact that I worked in a government office when I lived in China. I was able to negotiate great goods at great value prices and spent the Christmas holidays unloading a container from China."

Cathy who received extensive support from the women's enterprise agency, Train 2000, leases premises in Liverpool and County Rd, Walton and plans to expand her business to include consultancy advice for any businesses wishing to import goods from China. Cathy also has an emerging business in immigration consultancy, specialising in advice on work permits and student visas.

"There is a lot of red tape to get through but as I speak Chinese and have business and practical experience of the system I am able to advise and help any business wishing to trade with China.

"The Year of the Dog which begins on January 29th will be a good year for me. It is a sign which recognises hard work and loyalty, qualities which have been the basis of my business operations throughout my career."