MOSAIC -- the growing local organisation for businesswomen -- has appointed a new chairman.

Ruth Slater, of AVL Human Resources and Training in Heaton, succeeds Jan Barnes, of Ramsbottom holiday lettings company Boardmans, who has retired from the post after three years.

She will continue to serve on the steering group.

Ruth Slater's appointment was announced when members of Mosaic -- a sub-group of Bolton and Bury Chamber of Commerce -- held a networking meeting at Keogh's Solicitors in Middlebrook, Horwich.

The organisation's success has also led to the appointment of a vice-chairman -- Chris Macpherson of Chapelfield PR in Bolton.

Ruth Slater has been a member of Mosaic almost since its inception just over

five years ago and has served on the steering group for four years.

She said: "Jan has done a superb job in guiding Mosaic through a period of continuous success and growth."

Mosaic was formed five years ago from a core group of 30 local businesswomen

and membership now exceeds 300.

Regular monthly presentation and networking meetings are wide and varied, covering such topics as finance, health,

image and communication skills.

Details are available from Kay Gregson at Bolton & Bury Chamber -- 01204 374668 or e-mail: kgregson@chamberhelp.co.uk.