TEN representatives from eight Chard businesses got up at the crack of dawn this week for a free workshop on things to consider when marketing their businesses.

Chris Jones, from Newsquest, the parent company of the Chard and Ilminster News arranged for independent trainer and consultant Linda Piggott-Vijeh from Service Matters to give the workshop.

Linda said: “With the economy still sluggish and increased competition from the multi-nationals, local businesses need to identify their target markets, ensure they focus on what to achieve and have a succinct message to put across.”

The session was held at Hornsbury Mill and Linda plans to give another session in the New Year.

She added: “In the next session I will focus on how businesses can really drill down on the effectiveness of their activity. 

“I am delighted at this opportunity to support these local business and that such a wide cross-section attended.”