BUSINESS leaders from firms and organisations in and around Eastleigh took part in a special lunch hosted by town mayor Councillor Peter Hall.

More than 30 people, representing local employers like Aerostructures Hamble, BAA Southampton Airport, Flybe, Eastleigh College, Rose Bowl, the borough council, the Swan Centre and Mott MacDonald, were involved.

They heard keynote speeches about economic issues from borough leader Councillor Keith House, town MP Chris Huhne and airport boss Chris Butler.

The business leaders' lunch, held under the Chatham House Rule, which means speakers can't be publicly quoted, was the first of its kind in many years in Eastleigh.

Other names attending the lunch at Botley Park Hotel included Clarke Willmott, Eric Robinson, Lambert Brothers, Oriel Housing Group, Quilley School of Engineering, Foreman Homes, DHL Express, Xonitek Systems, G J Cooper, Botley Traders' Association, KMB Productions and Nice Systems.

Mr Hall told the Daily Echo he was deteremined to do what he could to improve links between the borough council and the business community.

He added: "Friday's meeting was a step in that direction. Their views are important to us."

Participants agreed the networking session was a success, allowing doors to be opened.