ABOUT 1,500 companies are harnessing the experience and expertise of Bolton and Bury Chamber.

And the business-to-business organisation has also played a pivotal role in helping local would-be entrepreneurs get their firms off the ground.

Next year, the chamber aims to increase its performance in various categories.

That's the message contained in the chamber's first annual review.

The report looks back at the momentous year (1997-98) when the Bolton Bury training and Enterprise Council and its Business Link division prepared for its October merger with the Chamber of Commerce, creating a multi-million pound support agency for local businesses and the wider community.

In his statement, chief executive Richard Bindless said: "Bolton and Bury Chamber is more than just a one-stop shop for business support.

"It's a one-stop superstore that backs local enterprise all the way and meets real modern-day business needs."

Chairman Tony Rink stressed the importance of ensuring that the chamber was a strong and vibrant members' organisation, committed to delivering services relevant to the needs of local people and local businesses.

Key achievements last year include:

Businesses receiving help and advice through the chamber's Business Link - 1,500 (target for 1998-99, 1,800).

Business start-ups through Headstart, 183 (target, 200).

Businesses gaining Investors in People, 83 (target, 113).

National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) gained, 2,417 (target, 2,245).

Young people starting work-based training, 2,939 (target, 2,811).

Additional childcare places created, 200 (target, more than 425).

School children gaining work experience, 6,000 (target, 6,000).

Copies of the annual review and business plan summary are available from Kath Cornall on 0845 6016010.

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