A BUSINESS event is being held next week to help companies in Hartlepool access markets at home and abroad.

Representatives from the town's business community have been invited to attend a free Access to Markets event, at Hartlepool Historic Quay, on Thursday.

Hartlepool Borough Council has joined forces with UK Trade Investment, and Business Link Tees Valley for the event.

UK Trade and Investment said the event would provide a valuable opportunity for companies in the town to learn more about developing their markets and improve their contacts with other businesses.

Attendance at the event is by invitation only but further events are planned for the future.