GO boldly forth to Central Europe - but beware the red tape.

That was the message to Bury and Bolton exporters considering business in this overseas sector.

Businesswoman Florence Deniel, speaking at the latest meeting of Bolton Bury Export Club, advised the audience to follow the lead of the Germans in gaining an early toe hold in Central Europe.

On a cautionary note Florence, who has just returned from a trade mission to Poland, warned them to be prepared to deal with red tape.

Recounting her experiences of the Business Link trip, she demonstrated that the bold exporter wins.

Other speakers included export specialists from the DTI, who gave an expert insight into trading with Poland, Slovenia, Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

They were joined by Deborah Stoker of the Allied Irish Bank, which is a major player in Central Europe.

Julian Birchett, head of international trade for Bolton and Bury Chamber, said: "Our recent trade mission to Poland underlined the strong opportunities in this fast emerging economy."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.