SMALL businesses turned out in force for a new event in Worcestershire designed especially for them.

The Business Showcase 2003, at The Bank House Hotel, Bransford, was the first of what is hoped to be a regular series of events from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

The FSB is a non-political group that promotes and protects the interests of people who own and manage their own business, and lobbies Government on their behalf.

The Business Showcase marks a push by the organisation, which has 1,800 members in Worcestershire, to increase awareness of the services and support it offers to small firms.

More than 80 small business owners mingled at last Tuesday's event, swapping ideas and contact numbers where there was a common interest.

Angel Smith, FSB's regional organiser for Herefordshire and Worcestershire, said she was delighted to see so many local business proprietors networking at the event.

"It was really successful, not just because so many people turned up, but because the atmosphere was really brilliant. There was a real buzz."

Promote and market

Business Showcase 2003 was designed to give small businesses in Worcestershire an opportunity to promote and market their expertise to other businesses.

"Everyone was kept busy throughout the evening giving information to potential clients and customers while making a host of new local contacts as well," added Ms Smith.

The event was formally opened by Councillor Peter Carter, chairman of the economic development and regeneration scrutiny panel at Worcestershire County Council.

"Mr Carter is a staunch supporter of the local business community and gave a rousing introduction, setting the scene for a positive and productive evening," said Ms Smith.

Gerald Godby, FSB's regional chairman, said he was "absolutely delighted" with the support the event had received.

"Members gained so much from it. As small business owners are true entrepreneurs, when they see an opportunity for their business they will seize it!"

The FSB was founded in 1974 and has 165,000 members in Britain, employing an average of 10 people each.

If you run a small business and are interested in what's on offer locally you can contact Angel Smith at the Worcestershire office on 01386 750032.