A NEW chairman of the 3Ds Business Development Forum has been appointed.

Otis Johnson, of Johnson Security Services based at Bolton Enterprise Centre on Washington Street, Deane, is looking forward to his new role.

He said: "I am greatly honoured to be asked to lead in what is an exciting time for the Business Forum.

"I would like to thank my predecessors for the good work they have done for the Forum in putting it on the map.

"The work they have done in providing a firm foundation will, I'm sure, make my life easier over the coming year."

The Forum was formed when a group of business people got together to devote some of their own time to making sure that businesses were heavily involved in the regeneration of Deane, Derby and Daubhill.

He added: "My vision is to see the Forum continue beyond the end of the 3Ds life and into the next Millennium and we will be doing all we can during this final year to ensure the pieces are in place to make this possible.

Objectives

"One of my main objectives as chairman will be to increase membership and I look forward to meeting and hearing from many more local businesses over the coming months."

The 3Ds Business Development Forum is going from strength to strength since it launched in 1996. Now with more than 160 members, regular meetings are held and events and activities are promoted to identify local business opinion and to respond to the need of members.

Paula Kelly from the 3Ds Partnership said: "The Forum is an ideal networking opportunity for businesses to get together and collectively make their voice heard. Membership is free and we just need your name and address to register your business and you will automatically receive information on future Forum meetings and events."

To register or to find out more contact Paula Kelly at Bolton Enterprise Centre on 524262 ext 2451. The e-mail address is:

businessforum@3Ds.boltonenterprise.co.uk or by post to the 3Ds Business Development Forum, Freepost NWW 8206, Bolton Enterprise Centre, Washington Street, Bolton. BL1 5ZZ.

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