THE image of Salisbury & District Chamber of Commerce and Industry as a fuddy-duddy organisation for shopkeepers could not be further from the truth, say its president, board members and officers.

In the last year, the organisation has celebrated a growing membership, successful business exhibition and awards ceremony, and a well-attended open day.

Catherine Dunning, who was appointed executive officer a year ago, said the chamber, which elected its latest president, Ian Hudson, last month, is looking ahead with optimism.

"The chamber has so much potential," she said.

"My hope is that within a few years every business in the area will be a member."

She said that membership, which now stands at about 350, can bring many benefits.

"Events like the one we ran with Train to Gain last month, enable members to find out about training at discount rates, which they may not otherwise be aware of," she said.

She added that the chamber, which is an associate member of the Forum of Private Business and whose board is made up of representatives from a wide range of industries, can provide advice on areas such as health and safety, as well as projector and laptop hire.

She echoed what Mr Hudson said in his acceptance speech about members getting more out of the chamber if they put more in.

"We would like to see businesses doing 20-minute presentations at our networking events - it makes the event more interesting and is an opportunity for them to promote themselves," she said.

"And, rather than staying in one venue, we would like members to host some of these events and perhaps provide a tour."

This year's South Wilts Business Expo (business exhibition) takes place on September 26 and members get a discount on exhibition space.

"It's the only exhibition of its kind in this area and is a wonderful shop window' for businesses," said Miss Dunning.

"And the annual awards ceremony, which this year is on November 16, is open to every business in the Salisbury and district area, no matter what size they are."

She said one initiative gathering momentum was offering members incentives.

"Members can go to other member businesses to get a discount, such as on hotel, restaurant and conference facilities," she said.

"Members can put themselves forward for the scheme, which emphasises the whole point of the chamber - to keep the business local and support the local economy."