THE MAYOR of Winchester is hosting an informal information evening aimed at budding entrepreneurs.

Cllr Eileen Berry opens the doors of her official residence, Abbey House, on Thursday March 26 at 7pm for businesspeople operating in the Winchester district.

The event – which includes a three-course dinner- aims to encourage local entrepreneurship and features short speeches from local businessmen Mohamed Bakhaty, Danny Habel as well as a keynote speech from Professor Don Nutbeam, vice-chancellor of Southampton University.

Cllr Berry said: “Before becoming a councillor I ran my own restaurant business. I understand how hard it is when you are first starting out and wanted to use my mayoral year to give something back to local people who find themselves in the very same situation.”

Local entrepreneur Mr Bakhaty, of M A Bakhaty Property Holdings, added: “Starting your own business can be daunting. I am pleased to be able to work with the mayor to help those considering this as an option.”

To find out more contact the mayor’s secretary by emailing dhadwen@winchester.gov.uk or phone 01962 848259. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis.