MORE than 50 businesses joined together to demonstrate that Mansfield is a great place to do business.

Be, See And Do Business In Mansfield transformed the town centre into a business hub for a day and was so successful that it will now be an annual event.

Exhibitors gave information and support, and Mansfield District Council answered questions about planning, licensing and grants. There was employment and apprenticeship advice for businesses wanting to employ young people.

UKTI, Barclays Bank and Purpose Media provided help on expanding a business and how to explore the idea of trading internationally.

The initiative was founded by award-winning business club Mansfield 2020 with its partners Mansfield BID, A Star Media, and Mansfield and Ashfield district councils.

A spokesman for the organisers said: “Our main objective was to showcase our business community and bring people together. The event demonstrated the strong desire to work together, not only to boost business but to put this town on the map.

“It was about showcasing the positive aspects of our business community within our vibrant town centre.”