WORKING together to boost trade has proved a big success for a group of business people in the Weald. The Tenterden Chapter of Business Network International was launched 15 months ago with a membership of nine people. Now it has 21 members, a number which is expected to increase to 28 by the autumn.

"We met in The Vine Inn at first, but we got too big and moved to the Little Silver Country Hotel," said Gary Bodle, of Financial Choices in Coombe Lane. "You get out what you put in. We are one big sales force and we work by referring each other for business."

David Jahnz, contracts manager with Ashford-based Epps, said his company had recently landed an £800,000 deal to build a community centre, through networking with the group. "And it goes on from there," he said. "Our sign board will go up and the word will get round."

The group holds a breakfast meeting every Tuesday in the hotel on the Ashford Road, where they discuss business and introduce new members, over cereal, coffee and a fried breakfast. Every member is vetted with references and must meet strict criteria to join. Only one company from each trade is allowed so there are no conflicts.

Business Network International was set up 10 years ago in America by a man who wanted to improve his business. The Tenterden group has members from the Kitchen Gallery at East Cross to Wealden Security Centre in Ashford Road, and new members this week include Central Will Services from Biddenden. Anyone interested in joining should contact the membership co-ordinator, Gary Bodle, on 01580 766400.