ELEVEN Bolton companies have signed up for the largest Commonwealth Games business showcase event to date.

They joined businesses from across the North-west at the National Cycling Centre in Manchester -- the Velodrome.

The Bolton hopefuls had the chance to meet the main sponsors, supporters and partners of the 2002 Manchester Games and discover the commercial opportunities available.

Companies including printers Blackburn's of Bolton and paint manufacturer Carltonian Classic Finishes were among those taking part.

The event was organised by the Supply Chain Chain Development Programme, which is part-funded through the Commonwealth Economic Benefits (CEB) as part of the wider Games legacy programme. It included a series of formal Meet the Buyer events involving companies and organisations like Adecco, Laing Ltd, Manchester Airport and Manchester City Council. Paul Hardman, SupplyWise manager, said: "This event allowed businesses to understand the full spectrum of opportunities to get involved with the 2002 Commonwealth Games and the full range of Games activities targeted on business." Seminars covered Games licensing, hospitality, the volunteer programme,supplying the Games and the impact of new technology on small businesses.