A NEW format for one of the key events in the business calendar will be revealed next Thursday.

The Tees Valley Business Show, held at Tall Trees Hotel, Yarm, near Stockton, has a guest list of companies and organisations from across the region.

Law firm Dickinson Dees once again headlines as major sponsor of the event, now in its seventh year, and The Northern Echo, North-East Newspaper of the Year, is exclusive media sponsor.

Joining Dickinson Dees in the line-up is Keith Robinson and Co, The Bank of Scotland, One NorthEast and Tees Valley Regeneration.

Top of the bill during a night of entertainment will be a panel debate.

Representatives from the North-East economy will discuss the state of business in the region.

The panel, to be revealed on the night, will include people with a passion and enthusiasm for the area, its economic viability and its regeneration.

They are all people who have the ability to make a difference.

The evening's itinerary will prompt stimulating and thought-provoking conversation during and long after the event. Alongside the more formal business guests, the business show will offer its traditional entertainment, which promises to outdo the trapeze artists who performed during dinner last year.

Hilary Dunne, event organiser, said "We are looking forward to a night of interesting debate and motivational conversation from our panel of key people.

"The event has caused great interest from leading companies buying tickets to entertain customers, suppliers and staff."

A limited number of tickets are still available. For details, call Enterprise Event Management on (01325) 281265.