AN INSPIRATIONAL event designed to help local businesses grow proved to be a great success.

INSPIRE06, which was held at The Hampshire Centrecourt, in Chineham, attracted more than 300 visitors to the exhibition and seminar event.

Leading business support organisations, such as the North Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NHCCI) and the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA), were on hand to share their expert knowledge and advice.

The event was launched by Saira Khan, the 2005 runner-up of TV's The Apprentice, last Tuesday evening at a gala dinner at the hotel.

Having just set up her own business, Ms Khan spoke about the fact that she is still learning, despite having worked for 15 years with top blue-chip companies.

Her advice to entrepreneurs included contacting local authorities and organisations such as Business Link, which offer a plethora of advice and services to help small businesses.

Following on from the success of last year's INSIGHT05, the event was sponsored by Absolutely Offices, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, SEEDA, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Local Skills for Productivity Alliance, NHCCI, Basingstoke College of Technology, Hampshire County Council and The University of Winchester.

John Harrocks, chief executive of NHCCI, said: "The attendance was very good and the feedback I've received has been very positive.

"I'm sure the local business community got a great deal out of the various seminars and workshops that were set up, because they were very carefully selected, based on the experience of last year."

Among those presenting the 16 seminars, which ranged from how to sell effectively by telephone to managing customer relationships to get more business, was David Smy, from Basing View-based chartered accountants HW.

He spoke about whether businesses should be registered for VAT.

"I think all the people who attended the session got something out of it," he said.

"Not everybody has to register, and I explained that even though you may not have to do this, there can be good reasons for registering, such as financial and commercial benefits."