Company of the Year owner David Atherton presents a trophy for the best stand at the exhibition to Deborah Massey, of IWM Designs Ltd

LOCAL "movers and shakers" were out in force for the opening of the fourth annual Bolton and Bury Business Voice exhibition.

The event, which continues at Bolton's Reebok Stadium until 4pm today, is a popular annual showcase for the business people who help underpin the local economy.

Organisers are hoping for 1,200 visitors over the two days to inspect what is on offer at about 85 stands reflecting a wide variety of products and services.

The show was opened by successful local businessman David Atherton, whose dabs.com computer business was voted the local Company of the Year for the second time this year.

His proud mother and father, Gerald and Shelagh, who live at Four Lane Ends, Bolton, were there to hear his short speech.

Afterwards David Atherton had a look round the exhibition and pronounced himself "impressed" by the business confidence on display.

"Exhibitions I have seen in London have not been as good as this," he said.

The trophy for the best stand went to IWM Designs Ltd, based on the Pearlbrook Industrial Estate in Horwich.

The company, which is run by husband and wife team Deborah and Ian Massey, designs, manufactures and installs sophisticated display cabinets used in shops, museums and galleries.

Car Bug from Manchester Road, Bury, and The Tickle Group from Summerseat, Bury were the joint runners-up.