With the UK officially in recession and many small firms under pressure, Lloyds TSB Commercial brought together more than 100 members of the local business community to hear from leading professionals about support available for the region’s small and medium enterprises and how to survive the downturn.

The event was hosted by Mark Cadwallader, area director for Lloyds TSB Commercial, and was designed to offer a wide range of practical advice, as well as helping to build relationships between small firms, accountants, business support agencies and experienced Lloyds TSB business managers.

It was held at the Three Counties Hotel and was one of 120 being held across the UK by the bank.

Mr Cadwallader said: “Increasing numbers of firms in Hereford are feeling under pressure due to the tough economic conditions they are facing and this event was a chance to bring together the business community and discuss how companies can deal with the challenges they may encounter. The strength and determination of local entrepreneurs means many firms are continuing to grow but there is a clear need for practical advice and guidance on the best way to thrive in the downturn.”

The seminars are part of the bank’s small business charter, which was launched last year to help the bank’s customers overcome the challenges posed by the economic environment.

Lloyds TSB Commercial provides business banking for 600,000 customers with a turnover of up to £15 million and increased lending balances in Hereford and Worcester by more than 29 per cent in 2008 compared with 2007.