BUSINESS Link Kent has appointed a new area manager to support businesses in the east of the county.

Nigel Lander, 58, has around 35 years of business experience under his belt and he will manage the organistation's dedicated east Kent team of six business advisers.

With a background in banking management with HSBC, and in business support with Business Link for London, Mr Lander is tasked with helping secure economic growth and development in the Canterbury, Dover and Thanet local authority areas.

Mr Lander said: "Business Link Kent is a tremendous organisation which is well placed to help businesses at a local level. I enjoy getting out on the road and meeting both businesses and our partner support organisations in the area.

"It is great to be in a position to meet business people on a one-to-one basis again and I am already getting up to speed with the particular challenges and opportunities of east Kent. Bringing to the attention of local businesses the broad range of skills advice and support that Business Link Kent has to offer is very rewarding."

East Kent companies requiring business support, skills or training advice should contact www.businesslinkkent.com, e-mail info@businesslinkkent.com, or call 08457 226655.