FORMER EastEnders favourite Tom Watt was among the guests when a Worcester pub and restaurant showcased its new business facilities with a networking event.

More than 40 guests from the county’s business community and beyond attended the launch of the business lounge at The Red Lion in Holt Heath, which was hosted in conjunction with Worcester media consultancy Chris Green Media.

Talks were given by Andrea Maddocks, founder and chief executive of children’s charity Mentor Link, and Mr Watt, who is now an author and broadcaster and media training partner at Chris Green Media. There was also authentic Caribbean food created by the Red Lion's tenant/chef Victoria Cullen and poetry readings from Worcestershire’s Poet Laureate Emeritus Maggie Doyle.

Mrs Cullen said: “We took over The Red Lion just under a year ago and have always wanted to create a venue for businesses who wish to hold half day or full day meetings and events in a quiet rural setting. In the Business Lounge, we have a large screen TV for presentations and WiFi access. There is also plenty of parking for delegates and the pub has easy access to major routes across Worcestershire.”

Chris Green, managing partner of Chris Green Media, added: “We will certainly be using the Business Lounge for training events and meetings. It is a flexible and well-designed space with breakout facilities outdoors which are ideal for delegates to chill out and clear their heads during meetings."