Ref. 28000-5Digby Jones, the Confederation of British Industry's director general called Britain "the most successful economy in the world" when speaking to more than 300 local businesses at a special lunch hosted by Swindon Chamber of Commerce.

Mr Jones, who was the guest speaker at the chamber's annual president's lunch it was quite a coup to secure his services added: "We can now be more confident that the UK is on the road to economic recovery.

"Consumer confidence is holding up. Unemployment is still low so household spending growth won't slip much.

"It has been pleasing to see manufacturers in the South West holding up well this year after the distinctly gloomy predictions in the first three quarters."

But he warned that on the global market, the country was in danger of losing its competitive edge.

"Despite how it looks on the surface," he said, "it's damn difficult to make a living in Britain."

Welcomed by outgoing chamber president Les Durrant of Old Town's DPDS Consulting, Mr Jones also took questions from floor. Mr Durrant said: "The last year has been one of mixed fortunes for the local business community. But as it draws to a close, it is clear that the situation is beginning to turn around and there is a renewed optimism."

The lunch was at the De Vere Hotel, West Swindon.