NEW Road Cricket Ground in Worcester played host to the launch of Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce's 2019 manifesto.

The event, attended by representatives from the county's business community, featured a discussion of the chamber's objectives and campaigns for the coming year.

The manifesto is a collection of key priorities for local businesses and local government to be more successful and is based off feedback from over 600 companies in the Quarterly Economic Surveys, Area Council meetings and daily talks with Members.

A Q&A was held to discuss the future of business in the region, with several business leaders voicing concern about the uncertainty caused by Brexit.

Locally, low unemployment and the national skills shortage continue to challenge businesses alongside concerns regarding Brexit and unreliable connectivity.

Speaking of the event, Robin Walker MP, said: “It was a pleasure to join the Chamber for their Business Manifesto launch at Worcestershire County Cricket Club, to celebrate the businesses who make such a massive contribution to our local economy and make sure their voice continues to be heard loud and clear in Westminster.”

Sharon Smith, CEO at the Chamber, said: “It was fantastic to see so many business leaders come out to support our priorities for 2019.

“As the voice of business in the two counties, I’m looking forward to seeing the Chamber continue to work collaboratively with Members to influence government on the key priorities outlined in our manifesto.”

The event, on January 25, culminated with a Q&A session featuring Robin Walker MP, Sharon Smith and Cassie Bray from the Chamber of Commerce, Hannah Chambers from the British Chamber of Commerce and Neil Schofield from Worcester Bosch.

For more about the manifesto, go to: hwchamber.co.uk/support/policy/our-business-manifesto/