A group that promotes business in villages is gathering this week for its second meeting.

South Maidstone Business Association (SMBA) was founded last month is one of a number of smaller-scale business promotion organisations being set up by entrepreneur Alan Reading.

The SMBA joins the Lenham Valley Business Association in helping local businesses grow.

It brings together enterprises in Staplehurst, Headcorn, Linton, Langley, Boughton Monchelsea, Chart Sutton, Sutton Valence and East Sutton.

Mr Reading says SMBA's purpose is to help members and encourage them to work together for the good of the area.

He said: "This association is all about helping the independent business prosper.

"It is especially an ideal local networking group that will help sole traders and smaller businesses develop."

The next meeting is being held on Wednesday at The Cock Inn at Boughton Monchelsea 5.45pm for 6pm start.

Other meetings will be held in The Crown and Horseshoes. Langley (January 26), The Hawkenbury Inn, Headcorn (February 23), The Mulberry Tree (March 30) and The Weald of Kent Golf Club, Sutton Valence (April 27). Meetings start at 5.45pm for 6pm.

More details at www.maidstonebusinessassociation.co.ukor telephone 01622 820 841.