A new group is helping develop opportunities in Kent’s rural business sector by hosting fortnightly meetings and presentations by leading figures in the industry.

The free Rural Business Development & Advancement Group is open to employers, employees, the self employed, unemployed and anyone wishing or considering entering and rural business.

The programmes are designed to meet the needs of members and visits will be organised to a range of rural businesses.

Meetings are held at Hadlow College near Tonbridge and a light buffet supper is provided.

The college has said information has been sent to NFU, CLA, Women’s Farming Union, Young Farmers, East Malling Research, Kent Wildlife Trust, Kent Smallholders and Produced in Kent.

Hadlow College said the concept is being seen as a potential blueprint for similar schemes in the UK. Contact pat.crawford@hadlow.ac.uk for more information.