EXHIBIT 2002, billed as the premier showcase for the cream of Kent business, is not likely to disappoint.

This year's one-day business and trade fair - run by Ashford Chamber of Commerce at Ashford International Hotel - is set to promote the finest that the county has on offer.

Members of the public can visit the free event between 10.30am and 5pm on Thursday June 27.

Demand for exhibition space has been keen. Within two weeks, most of the stands were booked.

Now in its 16th year, the event has expanded to become an excellent networking forum. Organiser Jo James said: "The original concept was of a business to business exhibition, and for many years that was what it remained.

"In recent years, there had been a marked change. The number and diversity of businesses represented has attracted not only other businesses, but also members of the public.

"Over the last couple of years, our visitor numbers have increased dramatically and we now see ourselves very much as a public trade fair."