After starting a new role as general manager at the Chamber of Commerce on the day that the prime minister announced the first Covid lockdown, the time has come to move on to a new role.

I am extremely proud of the progress the chamber has made in what have been unprecedented times.

The commitment to support the incredible business community that we have in Bridgwater and the surrounding areas has been needed more.

From online training courses and networking events to providing constantly updated information on the funding packages announced by central government and finally getting back to face-to-face business engagement events allowing local business leaders to share best practise, learn new skills and see the road back to a new form of normality, the work of the chamber never stops.

With record numbers of new members, it has been fantastic to see the resilience shown and the incredible successes that have resulted from businesses not just surviving but really thriving and, as such, the local business community is well placed to continue to grow strongly.

As I move on to a new role as general manager of a local manufacturing business, I would like to thank the team behind the chamber, the board and Tracy, for all their support but in particular the local businesses that I have had great pleasure working with.

More information is available on the website www.bridgwaterchamber.org.uk or via admin@bridgwaterchamber.org.uk.

Roger Smith
Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce