Representatives from close to 80 companies flew the flag for East Lancashire business at a Jubilee-themed networking event.

Delegates at ‘Meet and Eat at the Chambers’  heard tales from guest speaker Ron Hutchinson of his time as a chauffeur and PA to Lord Leverhulme, the former Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire, during which he attended many formal events, stayed at the Royal palaces and spent time with the Royal family.

Ron now holds the position of Corporate Fundraising Manager at Rossendale Hospice and as well as insight into his ‘royal life’, he discussed how businesses can benefit from supporting charity. During the event £140 was raised through a draw for the Hospice.

Meet and Eat at the Chambers formed part of the Chamber of Commerce East Lancashire’s ‘six in six days’ networking sessions taking place in the lead up to the Jubilee celebrations.

Darren Grantham, from the Chamber of Commerce, said:  “The second ‘Meet and Eat’ was a huge success and Ron gave us some fascinating insight into his life with Lord Leverhulme and his meetings with the Royals, which tied in with the Jubilee theme.

“Our aim going forwards is to shine a light on Rossendale and encourage businesses from across East Lancs to come into the Valley and forge new contacts. The area is home to some great businesses and, because of its proximity to the motorway network, we believe it has great potential for future growth.

“Special thanks to Ron Hutchinson, MDA for the fantastic Jubilee party kits, David Severn Jones for the photography (see Gallery above) and eeZee Listening for providing the music.”

The business-to-business event was organised by the Chamber of Commerce East Lancashire, in association with Rossendale-based Cassons Chartered Accountants, ISSL Web Design and Viva PR with images taken by Severn-Jones Photography

Meet and Eat at the Chambers is a networking group, based at St Mary’s Chambers in Rawtenstall, where firms can forge contacts, debate hot topics that affect the region, and ultimately do business in a relaxed, informal environment.

The next Meet and Eat at the Chambers networking event will take place on Monday 3 September – click here to book online or visit www.chamberelancs.co.uk/events