Mendip District Council hosted a retail and hospitality networking event in Street, which saw dozens of businesses gather to learn about free marketing opportunities in Somerset. The event took place in The Loft Lounge and Bar in Street, and featured businesses from the retail and catering sectors, venues, accommodation and other tourism related businesses.

Guest speaker, John Turner CEO of Visit Somerset, said: "It was a delight to support Mendip District Council at this outreach meeting in Street. "The event enabled Visit Somerset to talk directly to local businesses and Chambers of Commerce, to offer our support with digital training, e-commerce strategy, engagement and capacity management." Mr Turner added: "We all need new and repeat customers, and Visit Somerset is committed to supporting in any way possible, the drive of digitalisation and to help businesses get there, in the Mendip region."

Guest speaker, Laura Wolfers, Street Chamber of Commerce Business Development & Event Co-ordinator, said: "I was delighted to talk at Mendip's business event in Street. "We are very busy at the new Chamber of Commerce, with our first event being an Employment Fair on 7 July. It's free for businesses to exhibit, and free to attend. Find out more here: www.streetchambers.co.uk.

Cllr Simon Carswell, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: "This was our first visitor economy networking event since before the pandemic, so it was fantastic to see so many businesses make the most of the opportunity.

"We enjoyed meeting the organisations who provide Mendip residents and visitors with such high-quality experiences, they're an important part of Mendip's tourism industry.

"We plan to host more events in the future to ensure businesses can explore every avenue possible to grow their organisation further." The next visitor economy networking event will be a business breakfast at Shepton Mallet Prison on Tuesday 7 June. Sign up for free on Eventbrite by searching for Retail and Hospitality Networking. Visit Mendip's website for the latest updates: www.mendip.gov.uk/businessevents.