THE first-ever Local business Show in Odiham has been hailed a success.

Representatives from about 20 companies took part in the showcase event, which was held at the Cross Barn, Palace Gate.

It was organised by the Hart branch of the Business Referral Exchange (BRE) - a networking group with a catchment area covering Hook, Odiham, Basingstoke and Yateley.

Tania Skinner, a joint partner of PKS Property Services mortgage brokers in Odiham and a member of the local BRE, who co-ordinated the event, said: "We had a total of about 50 people come along on the day, which, for a small local event in Odiham, was quite impressive. We were really pleased with the turnout and the atmosphere was buzzing."

Exhibitors included a graphic designer, a printer, an independent financial adviser, a web developer and designer, a media company and a will writer.

Mrs Skinner said: "We will definitely be running more local business shows, as it was so successful."

The Hart BRE expects to stage three or four shows each year.

First published: Friday, April 22, 2005