Dorset Chamber welcomed national business leader Shevaun Haviland to the recent President’s Lunch at which the Dorset Business Festival was launched.

Addressing the 150 guests, Shevaun, who is director general of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “It’s probably going to be a choppy year ahead but the indicators are looking positive, confidence is heading in the right direction and we look forward to supporting and helping you in the coming months.

“Please do seize the opportunities afforded to you by the chamber and its team, as together we are stronger and we can really make a difference to the community and society.”

Dorset Chamber president Caron Khan thanked Ms Haviland for attending the event at the Italian Villa in Poole.

She also hailed the ‘outstanding and incredible contribution’ of former Dorset Chamber president Liz Willingham when she presented her with a long service award.

Chamber chief executive Ian Girling launched the Dorset Business Festival with Grant Esterhuizen from Premier Festival Partner Lester Aldridge solicitors.

The three-day celebration of business will include a conference, exhibition and awards on 10 to 12 October in Bournemouth.

The conference will have a ‘future of business’ focus with four main themes: technology, Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG); place; and people.

Entries for the Dorset Business Festival Awards open on 9 May, Free to enter in 10 categories they will be open to all businesses in the county whether chamber members or not.

Ian Girling said: “The festival will be a major celebration and fantastic showcase of businesses from right across the county.”