BUSINESS people from across south Wiltshire turned out in force for the launch of an innovative training project.

South Wiltshire Economic Partnership's (Swep) first Business Training Network event, held at the White Hart Hotel in Salisbury last month, attracted a range of entrepreneurs, from sole traders to representatives of major local employers.

Hosted by training experts Triangle South and chaired by Swep chairman Alan Taylor, the aim of the event was to share business and training ideas to help the south Wiltshire economy prosper.

The evening included presentations stressing the importance of networking to produce a vibrant local economy.

Peter Le Count, managing director of the Wilton Carpet Factory, talked about how he uses open communications to help staff take responsibility for honing and developing their skills.

White Hart general manager Peter Watt spoke about his firm's Commitment to Excellence a programme designed to show staff how to give their best.

"The results speak for themselves," he said.

"The hotel is performing well at every level."

Sharon Mustard, a psychotherapist and hypnotherapist, gave an insight into the best methods of managing stress in the workplace.

The networking evening was the first of a continuing programme.