WORCESTER companies are being invited to promote their products and services at the 2005 Severn Boat Festival in the city.

Worcester Racecourse, and the adjoining River Severn, will host a spectacular three-day festival from Friday, 29 to Sunday, July 31, that will attract both serious boating enthusiasts and families.

With more than 250 craft, food, antique and boating memorabilia stalls, a full entertainment programme, children's adventure village, and river-based activities, it will have mass appeal.

More than 45,000 people are expected at the event and the organisers would like to encourage local companies to promote themselves alongside the national exhibitors, to ensure that they get their share of the trade.

Chris Carless at Worcester Events, also a committee member of the Worcester Tourist Association, said: "The Severn Boat Festival will be one of the county's leading family events this year and I don't want to see local businesses miss out.

There is also a corporate hospitality package available. But prompt booking is advised. The package includes a three-course meal with wine, access to the networking lounge and entry tickets.

For information call Chris on 01905 28547 or log onto www.severnboatfestival.co.uk