The ballroom at the George was the stylish setting for Rye Chamber of Commerce’s AGM on Saturday, October 18. Fifty members attended the afternoon tea which marked a year of growth and achievement for the town’s – now vibrant – business networking organisation.
During the twelve months that Jane Brook (chair) and Sarah Broadbent (vice-chair) have been in office, the chamber has doubled its membership. Most notably they have introduced a programme of quarterly networking events – each has been well attended, providing members with the opportunity to get to know each other better, share expertise and collaborate on ideas in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Both Jane and Sarah are committed to making sure the chamber really understands what local businesses want and need and to that end they’ve become regular faces around town on Walkabout Wednesdays when they drop in to catch up with members.
But it isn’t just about listening, it’s about responding too. They commented: “We spend a lot of time helping individual members with business advice and putting you in touch with people who can help you with specific challenges you’re facing.”
They’ve introduced a monthly newsletter keeping members up to speed on all things business locally, regionally and nationally.
The AGM voted Jane and Sarah in for another year of office, along with Elise Garner who will continue her role as membership secretary. Hospitality champion Martin Blincow also continues in office and the meeting was pleased to welcome Dominic Manning as sustainability champion. Dominic will oversee the chamber’s vital cardboard recycling scheme going forward.
The AGM included updates from Fran and Vickie Huxley on plans for Rye’s late night shopping event which will take place on Saturday, November 18. Rebekah Gilbert also informed members on the growing links between Rye and Montreuil-sur-Mer.
Guest speaker, John Bownas from Love Hastings gave an insight into the Hastings BID – what it is, how it works and how Rye might consider applying for BID status. It provided much food for thought.
The chamber would like to thank Katie and Alex and their team at the George for hosting the AGM and to everyone who attended.
Upcoming events for the Chamber include their first Netwalk at Rye Harbour on Wednesday, November 15 and Rye Chamber’s Christmas party which will be held on Wednesday, December 13 at the Mermaid. More details and tickets for both events can be found at www.ryechamber.org.
Image Credits: Kt bruce .