BUSINESSES in Dorset can find out more about using foreign languages to boost international trade, thanks to the Regional Language Network South West.

Dorset language teachers James Piriou and Philada Rogers have been appointed to run the Sub-Regional Language Hub, and will use their links with businesses and their foreign language and culture expertise to help Dorset businesses maximise opportunities to trade overseas by speaking to customers in their native tongue.

The RLN South West was set up following an audit of south- west firms by the South West Regional Development Agency, which found that 20 per cent of internationally trading companies admitted to having lost business because of a language or cultural barrier.

Jointly funded by the Department for Education and Skills and the South West Regional Development Agency, the RLN South West is the central point of contact for any business requiring foreign language assistance to help it trade in other countries.

A virtual language community for the region is being created through a website, which will provide businesses seeking language professionals with a directory of suitably experienced people, offering translation or interpreting services, language and cultural awareness training.

James Piriou, who has ten years' experience of working with foreign languages and cultures with the United Nations, said: "I was overjoyed to discover that the Regional Language Network had been set up to address the restraints that many local businesses find in attempting to trade overseas and am delighted to be able to play a part in delivering the initiative locally.

"Communicating effectively and understanding foreign cultures is absolutely vital for companies wanting to maximise trading opportunities overseas and I see my and Philada's role as giving companies the confidence to reach their potential in overseas markets by identifying the skills they need to be successful."

Gwyneth Leonard, manager of the Regional Language Network South West, said: "The appointment of people like James and Philada in Dorset is an important milestone for the RLN South West, as it will provide businesses with a local contact with whom to discuss their language and cultural needs."

To find out more about the Regional Language Network South West, log onto www.rln-southwest.com or contact James and Philada on telephone 01305 771920 (e-mail jamespiriou@yahoo.co.uk).