The launch of the brand new Worcestershire Diners Club networking lunch proved to be a hit with local professionals after attracting a sell-out crowd.
The Worcestershire Diners Club, which is hosted by BCRS Business Loans and held on a quarterly basis at Worcester Racecourse, completely sold out of tickets for its inaugural event on 28th June, attracting bookings from 150 business professionals.
The event, which builds on the success of the Black Country Diners Club in Wolverhampton, combines excellent networking opportunities with a two-course lunch and an insightful talk from a guest speaker, resulting in a prestigious event that attracts leading business professionals from across the region.
Making the most of the sunshine, those attending the launch event were welcomed into Worcester Racecourse with 45 minutes of networking and a complimentary glass of wine in the venue’s outdoor marquee, allowing guests to enjoy the surroundings.
Guests were then invited to take their seats in the upstairs suite, which had been laid out in a stylish and sophisticated manner and afforded views of the River Severn. After being treated to a two-course meal and fresh tea and coffee, BCRS representative Angie Preece, took to the stage as compere to introduce BCRS Business Loans and welcome guest speaker Roy Irish.
BCRS Business Loans is a not-for-profit lender that supports the growth of Midlands based businesses that are unable to secure finance from traditional lenders. BCRS offer loans from £10,000 to £150,000. Angie Preece is a business development manager for BCRS Business Loans, covering Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Oxfordshire.
Roy Irish, representative of the Worcestershire LEP on the Midlands Engine Access to Finance Group, discussed the next round of public backed funds available for local businesses.
Roy explained that although the UK recognises the massive funding gap that exists for SMEs and the detrimental effect it is having on our economy, there is still more that can be done. The Midlands Engine Access to Finance Group aims to start combatting the issue by bringing a host of funds to the region in a bid to support viable businesses, along with continued support from Responsible Finance Providers such as BCRS Business Loans.
Paul Kalinauckas, Chief Executive of BCRS Business Loans, said: “The event was hailed as a great success and brought together business professionals from across the Three Counties, Birmingham, Warwickshire and surrounding areas. One guest even travelled all the way from Cardiff to attend this event. We have heard how networking at this event resulted in additional sales and introductions.
“Working in partnership with Worcester Racecourse, our aim has always been to provide a professional and prestigious networking lunch – an event that is unique. With excellent networking opportunities, a two-course lunch and an interesting guest speaker, it is a winning combination,” commented Paul.
A date for your diary: The next Worcestershire Diners Club will take place on Tuesday 20th September at Worcester Racecourse. To ensure you receive email invitations to future events, simply send your contact details to events@bcrs.org.uk.
Find a selection of photos taken below at the launch event – are you featured in them?
