Promoting excellence was high on the agenda as businesses in St Neots and the surrounding villages came together for a special event.

St Neots Business Showcase, in Market Square, on June 9, saw more than 20 companies set up shop from industry figureheads to newcomers to build on the already booming business community in the town.

The event, which is now in its fifth year, gave passers-by and town centre visitors the chance to recognise and celebrate the wide range of successful enterprises, large and small, that are operating right on their door step.

Organised jointly between the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce and St Neots Town Council, the unique outdoor exhibition offered businesses representatives the opportunity to widen their client base.

John Bridge, chief executive of the chambers, said: “The event was a unique opportunity to showcase the wide variety of successful businesses and illustrate the vibrancy of the local business community.”

One of those who attended was Ian Burt, from Barclays Business Banking, who praised the event for its opportunity to not only talk to the public but also create business to business contacts.

He added: “We found the event very useful for engaging with the public and great value for money.”

Businesses from across the town representing a breadth of industry sectors took part including established firms such as Betty Bumbles Vintage Tea Rooms, Barford+Co, Habby Days and Wyboston Lakes.

Katie Williams, development manager at St Neots Town Council, added: “The feedback received from exhibitors has been really positive and it has been a pleasure working with the chambers to highlight the breadth of businesses operating in and around St Neots. We will definitely look to continue this event annually and hope to engage even more businesses next year.”

The showcase was also attended by ventures which are in the infancy of their St Neots residency including Riverside Miniature Railway and Nelson’s Lodge Care Home.

Some lucky fair-goers also got their hands on free samples and benefitted from special offers which were exclusive to the event.