Getting businesses off to a flying start is the focus of a major event next week backed by The Comet.

The first Link Local Business Growth Show at Holiday Inn, Stevenage on Tuesday May 17 aims to help new businesses as well as would-be entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality with free advice from a wide range of professionals.

This will include sessions on everything from accounting, tax and IT to legal issues, human resources and websites.

Over 30 exhibitors, including banks and business support organisations, will also be on hand to help with practical advice.

The show which runs from 10am to 4pm is organised by Stevenage-based business professionals including Streets Chartered Accountants, Applied IT, with the support of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and this paper.

To book your place call 01438 870119, or go to www.linklocal.biz