HUNDREDS of businesses from in and around Tamworth got a boost at the region's annual premier networking event.

More than 600 delegates attended the Think Local 4 Business show, staged by Tamworth Borough Council together with other authorities and organisations.

This time hosted in Burton, the 2011 event was the biggest and most successful to date with 612 delegates, 64 exhibitors and 11 seminars.

Special guest speaker and businesswoman Ruth Badger, spoke to an audience of more than 100 people before touring the exhibitions.

Speakers included Tamworth Borough Council Leader Councillor Danny Cook, who opened the event, and Bruce Boughton from event sponsors Lovell.

Cllr Steve Claymore, Tamworth Borough Council Cabinet member for economic development and enterprise, said: "The Think Local 4 Business Show is a great opportunity to inspire and develop business growth in Tamworth and as a council we were delighted to once again play our part in it.

"This year's show was the biggest and best yet, with more delegates and a great range of exhibitors and seminars.

"Creating and sustaining a thriving local economy and making Tamworth a more aspirational and competitive place to do business is one of our main priorities and this goes a long way to helping us achieve that."

Think Local 4 Business has been responsible for generating more than £700,000 worth of business since its launch in 2004.