BUSINESS and finance leaders in Bolton met at a networking event for professionals at the Victoria Inn in Heaton.

The event was organised by Royal Bank of Scotland's Gavin Elmes, the Bolton senior relationship manager.

Members of the borough's professional community met at the informal meeting which was the fourth event following a positive response to previous meetings.

Mr Elmes said "The event was the best yet with more than 40 local professionals attending and we have already set a date for the next get together."

Mike Lamont, Director for Royal Bank of Scotland, Bolton, said "The event created a real hive of activity and excitement which I haven't seen for some time."

Mr Lamont has just returned to the area after spending 15 years working around the North west. He added: "It was great to catch up with a number of long established professional contacts and to meet some new ones with a typical Bolton buzz around the room. I am really looking forward to driving the business again here in Bolton and supporting clients with their aspirations across the area’.

Guest Phil Stephenson of KBL Solicitors 'It was a great opportunity to network with local professionals and in great surroundings’.