HUNDREDS of business entrepreneurs attended the Basingstoke Business Expo.

The event, organised by Memo Events was held at the Apollo Hotel, gave provided an opportunity for business owners to network, meet with industry experts and specialists.

Matthew Larcome, who is a director of the fast growing exhibitions organiser, based at The Innovation Centre on Basing View was clearly delighted with the turnout.

He said: “It was an amazing event – we had over 450 attendees.”

“The exhibition was a huge success as we attracted a wide range of exhibitors.

“They did really well and many have contacted us about booking for our next Basingstoke event next year.”

Matthew added: “We’ll also be launching new business shows in 2016 in other areas, including Reading, Winchester, Farnborough and Bracknell.

Among the local exhibitors was Mike Barnes from Despatch Point, which is based on the Moniton Trading Estate.

Mike said: “It’s been a very good day as there has been a good flow of people with a genuine interest in what we do.”

Rosslyn Partridge from SJH Creative, based in Priestley Road, Basingstoke agreed.

She said: “We have had lots of interest and I think we’ve had at least four or five business leads so it’s been a worthwhile day.

“It’s been a good way of getting our brand out there.”

Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, which hosted a speed networking session, also had a stand, along with the business support team from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council as well as Destination Basingstoke, which were promoting the INSPIRE15 Business Awards.