Bosses get on track for networking ride

BIANCA MURRAY

IT was a case of ‘full steam ahead’ for a group of business leaders when they took part in a networking event on a steam train.

More than 60 representatives from businesses across the region got on board on the East Lancashire Railway for the latest gathering of ‘Meet and Eat in the Valley’.

Guests got the chance to network during the 35-minute outward journey from Rawtenstall to Bolton Street station, Bury.

Passengers then disembarked to hear a talk delivered on the platform by guest speaker Ian Hewitt, whose company, Heritage Painting, won the contract to repaint the world’s most famous steam engine, The Flying Scotsman.

The event – thought to be the first of its type – coincided with the 170th anniversary year of the first train journey on the line.

Les Nutter, managing partner at Cassons and host of ‘Meet and Eat in the Valley’, said: “We like to do things differently when it comes to ‘Meet and Eat in the Valley’ and this was certainly different!

“The East Lancashire Railway is part of the fabric of Rossendale, with a rich history dating back 170 years, so to be able to stage our event on such an historic line was a real privilege.

“We were also treated to a fascinating talk from Ian Hewitt, whose incredible life story inspired us all.

“Ian used to be a pilot in the RAF until a serious injury meant he had to quit his job.

“It was then that he decided to do some volunteering with the East Lancs Railway, which proved to ●● From left, Mike Damms of East Lancs Chamber of Commerce, Ian Hewitt and Les Nutter be the start of a completely new career. After teaching himself the art of heritage painting, Ian set up his own business – Heritage Painting in Darwen – and won contracts to re-paint some of the world’s most iconic steam engines, such as The Mallard and The Flying Scotsman.”

‘Meet and Eat in the Val- ley’ is a quarterly networking event delivered by Cassons, the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce and Viva PR.

The next event is on Fri- day, September 16, at Helmshore Textile Museum, and tickets cost £15 per person. To book online visit www.chamberelancs.co.uk