HIGH-profile business commentator Justin Urquhart Stewart plans to outline the problems facing businesses seeking funds for expansion, when he speaks at a County Durham business event next month.
The former barrister and market commentator for BBC television and radio will be addressing the inaugural County Durham Business Show on May 17.
The event, at Hardwick Hall Hotel, in Sedgefield, will also feature expedition leader Major Ken Hames as after dinner speaker.
Mr Urquhart Stewart, whose brother Simon is a farmer in Hexham, Northumberland, said: "I am very much looking forward to addressing the County Durham Business Show.
"I want to focus on the problems faced by small businesses looking to get off the ground, as well as the current issues facing the financial services industry.
"There are a wealth of business support organisations, and it isn't often easy for people to find the right advice for their particular problem. Often it is the luck of the draw."
He added: "The financial services industry has been through some tough times in recent years, particularly with issues such as pensions mis-selling and problems with endowments.
"I want to encourage people to invest more time in their finances, running their own accounts like those of a large company."
The County Durham Business Show is being organised by Enterprise Event Management, with County Durham Development Company as the major sponsor.
The evening's entertainment will feature the presentation of The Northern Echo Lifetime of Achievement Award to a key business person in County Durham.
Nominations are being sought for the award, to be presented by the editor of The Northern Echo, Peter Barron.
Nominations should be sent to Hillary Dunne, marketing manager at Enterprise Event Management, The Imperial Centre, Grange Road, Darlington, DL1 5NQ. Alternatively, send her an email to hillaryeventsdbv.fsnet.co.uk
Tables of ten for the event are selling fast, but there is still some availability.
They cost £575 plus VAT, and include a champagne reception and five-course dinner.
For table reservations, contact Enterprise Event Management on (01325) 480891
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