The event held at the Elsie Whiteley Innovation Centre was organised by the centre and Business Link Yorkshire.

Born and raised in Shelf, Linda took an art foundation course at Percival Whitley College but unsure on the next career step and in need of paying the rent, she joined an airline as a cabin crew member.

She began decorating in her own home and then would help friends with their furnishings in her spare time.

A few years later she moved to London and it was there that her work caught the eye of a magazine editor and she started writing for interior-design magazines.

That gave her a break with Changing Rooms – a format that ran for 10 years.

It was this that helped her create the Linda Barker brand for interiors.

She created a new interior furnishings mail order catalogue and website – Really Linda Barker.

"Changing Rooms changed the way that people thought about me, and the way that I thought about myself," said Linda.

"I really have to pinch myself to realise just what I've achieved.

"For me, success has come from seizing every opportunity.

"If opportunity comes your way you have to grab it with both hands and not let go."

Linda's tip for success was to have a tangible product behind a brand and match customer expectations.

She added sticking to a business plan was key, as well as seeking professional advice when needed.