FENLAND: Local firms encouraged to go for gold as 2012 London Olympics draw ever nearer

FENLAND businesses are being encouraged to go for gold at the 2012 London Olympics. Although the Olympic and Paralympic Games are still three years away, there are many opportunities for Fenland businesses to cash in now on all the preparations. They are

FENLAND businesses are being encouraged to go for gold at the 2012 London Olympics.

Although the Olympic and Paralympic Games are still three years away, there are many opportunities for Fenland businesses to cash in now on all the preparations. They are being invited to a special, three-hour workshop at the Boathouse in Wisbech on March 18 to learn the best ways of getting involved.

Companies in the East of England region have already succeeded in securing 9-10 per cent of all contracts awarded so far - more than any other area outside London and the South-East. But the door is still open for firms to tender for work, and opportunities are by no means confined to those linked to construction or sporting activities.

To facilitate this Fenland District Council has provided the venue for the workshop, which has been organised by the Greater Cambridge Partnership and Business Link and is supported by the East of England Development Agency. It will include presentations from local authority procurement officers.

Councillor Alan Melton, the council's portfolio holder with responsibility for economic and business development, said: "In these tough times, it is vital that businesses seize every possible opportunity to gain new contracts. We are continuing to give all the help we can."

The workshop begins at 7.30am. To register, visit http://www.bookevents.org or call 0845 601 100; places are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.