AN initiative to develop links between businesses in County Durham and counterparts in the US has taken its first steps.

It comes after County Durham played host to Michael Olivier, executive director of the Development Commission of Harrison County, Mississippi.

Mr Olivier's fact-finding visit to the area saw him tour the Netpark development site at Sedgefield and have a working lunch with Derek Foster MP, several senior people from Durham University involved in technology transfer and representatives of the County Durham Development Company.

He also met local small business "champions" Jeff Fitzpatrick, of business development company Walker Hall Associates, and Mike Maddison, of accountants Chipchase Nelson.

"Mr Olivier was extremely impressed with what the county has to offer and is very keen to develop a strong link between Durham, Harrison County and the whole state of Mississippi," said Mr Fitzpatrick.

Mr Olivier will be returning to County Durham in October to attend Intertech 2003.