Northumberland to host rural business conference

The Rural Business Conference 2016, which takes place on Friday, June 24, from 9.30am to 4pm, at Kirkley Hall, near Ponteland, is being hosted by the North East Farming and Rural Advisory Network.

Delegates at the conference will hear from keynote speaker, Lord Curry of Kirkharle, the former chairman of NFU Mutual and passionate rural business advocate.

The conference also offers an opportunity for delegates to participate in interactive workshops, find out about forthcoming opportunities for businesses in rural areas, as well as hearing from organisations managing rural funding and network with representatives from across the North East business support community.

Visit tinyurl.com/zqjf9dvLord Curry said: “There is huge, untapped economic potential within the rural business community of the North East and across the UK. The contribution to economic growth is, however, only one important element.

“As important, if not more so, is the contribution to local communities and the social benefits that flow from businesses located in rural areas. The lifestyle benefits and quality of life are a great attraction.”

Coun Dave Ledger, deputy leader of Northumberland County Council and Arch chairman, said: “The 2016 Rural Business Conference will bring businesses and policy makers together to discuss the vision of a robust, productive and sustainable rural economy.

“Rural businesses have a huge part to play in supporting the regional economy and in creating more and better jobs for all. I strongly encourage entrepreneurs and business owners considering new projects or exploring rural business opportunities to attend the conference and take advantage of this opportunity to talk to the North East business support community”.