THIRTY of the area's leading business people had a networking day at the races with Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

At Worcester racecourse's first meeting of the year, the Chamber’s patron and strategic members enjoyed a drinks reception in a private marquee right by the horse racing action. Mike Ashton, the Chamber's chief executive, gave a welcome and overview of the event along with Jenny Cheshire, executive director of Worcester Racecourse.

Guests included representatives from EBC Group, ISO Quality Services Ltd, borwell Limited and Henley Business Group, heard from a racecourse tipster who gave an insight into the jockeys and horses, highlighting the favourites for each race to provide an edge when placing bets.

The day provided an opportunity for businesses to build relationships while enjoying the fast-paced excitement of the races. The Chamber of Commerce sponsored two of the races with Visit Worcestershire sponsoring the third race of the day. In between each race, members were invited into the parade ring to judge the best turned out horse and were able to present prizes to the winning owners and jockeys.

Jenny Cheshire, executive director of Worcester Racecourse, said: "The racecourse was delighted with the success of the hospitality event hosted the the Chamber of Commerce. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet some new faces from local businesses and to showcase our hospitality and sponsorship opportunities.”

Mr Ashton added: "It is always a pleasure on behalf of the Chamber and Visit Worcestershire to support the first meeting of the year at Worcester Races. It provided the perfect backdrop to a great networking afternoon attended by people from many of the strategic businesses in the two counties.”