Thousands of visitors flocked to the county’s business show of the year.

Kent 2020 Vision LIVE, the biggest business event in the south east outside London, proved a magnet once again after delegates descended on Kent Event Centre, Detling.

More than 3,000 people visited last year'sshowcase, and organisers are quietly confident this year’s attendance will be even higher, many from beyond Kent and across the Channel.

The Kent Showground complex has been buzzing with activity and networking from 7am onwards when a breakfast, sponsored by Kent Association of FE Colleges (CAFEC), launched the 2013 show.

Staged against a backdrop of tough economic conditions, the show has been alive with optimism from delegates and exhibitors alike.

An impressive line-up of guest speakers and workshops proved a big attraction.

This year’s themes are “Get Connected,” reflecting the show’s key role in helping Kent businesses to access a range of exciting opportunities, and Tomorrow’s Business, looking at the shape of business organisations over the next 10 years.

In a single day, delegates connected with current clients, potential customers, innovative suppliers, new partners, international markets, emerging technologies and specialist support providers.

They could also pick up valuable new ideas from a wide range of sources.

The show is organised by Revolution Events, Pembury, for show promoter BSK-CIC.

BSK chief executive Jane Ollis (pictured above) said: “This is a unique chance to discover and access opportunities that visitors may not even know existed.

"Our special Tomorrow’s Business feature provides a fascinating glimpse of how many organisations might look and operate in five to 10 years’ time, which fits perfectly with BSK’s role in preparing Kent businesses for the future.”

The show ended with a charity auction in memory of the late Kevin Lynes who as Kent County Councillor for Regeneration and Economic Development backed the show and apprentices.

Proceeds will go to the Kevin Lynes Apprenticeship Scheme.

The show is also backed by Kent County Council, KM Group and Kent Event Centre.