FEMALE business leaders take centre stage at a forthcoming business conference.

Calderale Business Conference takes place on Friday at The Shay in Halifax as part of the wider Yorkshire Business Conferences programme for 2012.

Hundreds of local firms have already registered for the event, which will feature an exhibition with more than 40 companies promoting their products and services and ample networking opportunities, including a 4Networking Breakfast Meeting.

Speakers will include Claire O’Connor, founder of babyballet and a Calderdale Champion; Sarah Dunwell, co-founder and chief executive of Create Foundation; “Dragon Slayer” and health food pioneer, Kirsty Henshaw; former glamour model turned lingerie firm boss Nikki Hesford and Nicky Bramley, of Business Growth Calderdale.

For details call event director Danny Matharu on 01924 284 524.