The Echo-backed South Coast Business Works event is now in full swing at Southampton’s Novotel.

Hundreds of visitors are expected at the event which has more than 30 business and organisations taking part as well as keynote speakers and a speed networking session.

Simon Rhodes, partner at law firm Trethowans, who are the event’s main sponsor, opened proceedings with his welcome address in which he drew an upbeat picture of the region’s business prospects base on its strong transport links, thriving university sector and popular tourism attractions.

Looking to the future, Mr Rhodes quoted Sir Ian Mackellen as Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings movies who said: “All we have to do is to decide what we do with the time that is given to us."

Mr Rhodes said that business people were “in control” and needed to be bold and make decisions now rather than wait for the outcome of Brexit or worry about changes in oil prices or interest rates.

The first key note speaker of the morning was the managing director of Southampton Airport, Dave Lees, who said connectivity into the region was vital for its future business success.

He said that the airport had just enjoyed its busiest year with 1.9m passengers travelling through the terminal in 2016 and that it was hoped to break the 2m barrier in 2017.

Next up is Brad Roynon who will be speaking about Southampton’s new Business Improvement District.