THE Burgess Hill Business Parks Association will shine a spotlight on the diversity of its members next month at its annual Burgess Hill Means Business exhibition.

To mark the centenary of the women’s vote, the exhibit will feature a roster of female guest speakers after opening remarks by Louise Goldsmith, leader of West Sussex County Council.

Anya Ledwith, founder of Eshcon, will speak alongside Angela Gill, MD of Bio-Productions, and Rosemary French OBE from Gatwick Diamond Initiative.

Newly-appointed BHBPA chairman Susan Fleet will also introduce the event after taking over from Paul Shearing in the position a few months ago.

Now in its 8th year, Burgess Hill Means Business is a biennial showcase where member organisations come together to network and promote their services, products and projects.

Originally devised to highlight the full extent of commercial activity in Burgess Hill and its surrounding areas, the exhibit has continued to grow year-on-year.

This time around, the schedule will include an open forum with Mid Sussex District Council where business folk can voice their concerns and receive answers to their questions.

Garry Wall, leader of Mid Sussex District Council, will attend alongside some major local employers – such as HPC, Time24, and Ridgeview Wine Estate – and a plethora of SMEs and hotels like Ockenden Manor and Lindfield Park.

Peter Liddell, co-ordinator of the BHBPA, said: “We always receive fantastic feedback about Burgess Hill Means Business.

“We’re stepping up our game this year with a live broadcast by Connections Radio and plenty of exciting stands, showcases and talks. I can’t wait to welcome people from across Mid Sussex.”

The Burgess Hill Means Business exhibit takes place at The King’s Centre, Burgess Hill on Friday May 4 between 11am and 3pm. Entrance is free on presentation of a business card.