EAST Lancashire's aerospace industry will have its biggest-ever presence at an overseas event when this year's Paris International Air Show opens in June.

The North West Aerospace Alliance is co-ordinating a major bid for new sales on behalf of its 700-strong membership at the flagship event.

Among the East Lancashire companies taking space on the Alliance's 140 sq metre stand will be MB Aerospace, Burnley, Hurst Green Plastics and INBIS, of Bamber Bridge.

Just a few spaces remain available on the Alliance stand and companies looking to join the trip to Paris need to act quickly. Marketing manager Paul Hughes said the Alliance was hoping the event would provide a multi-million pound boost for the region's aerospace sector. Besides offering a showcase for members' products and capabilities, the event would also help links with other aerospace 'communities' around the world.

"Things have really moved on since we first visited Paris in 1995," said Mr Hughes. "Generous support from the DTI has enabled us to draw together some of the most competitive packages for any international event.

"It gives our member companies a direct and economical route into one of the world's key air shows."

The stand will incorporate a large meeting area, literature library and a private meeting area. Facilities will also include an internet link, fax, phones and photocopying services.

Alliance chairman Dennis Mendoros, believes that the first Paris show of the 21st Century will prove to be another stepping stone both for companies and the organisation.

"Over the past two to three years, we have seen major upheaval in the aerospace sector with mergers, takeovers, consolidation and globalisation of the supply chain," he said.

"There are now signs that things may be levelling off and companies in the supply chain should look at Paris as a golden opportunity to win new business."

Companies wanting further information should contact Paul Hughes or Miriam Banks, Tel: 01282 604444.