BUSINESSES in the Tees Valley are being urged to join the North-East export revolution in an attempt to boost international trade and profits.

Secrets and advice about how to access overseas business opportunities will be available at a UK Trade and Investment event held at the Parkmore Hotel in Yarm Road, Eaglescliffe, on Wednesday, June 15.

"The North-East is already one of the country's top exporting regions, with around £10bn worth of goods and services exported around the world last year," said Simon Crosby, UK Trade and Investment's senior international trade advisor at Business Link Tees Valley.

"Selling overseas has many benefits for companies - helping to increase profits and minimising the exposure to the risks of only selling to the UK market.

"This event will focus on the many benefits of trading internationally and highlight the wide range of support available - both practical and financial - to help companies achieve their export potential."

The programme will include an overview of UK Trade and Investment, the benefits of selling overseas, financial assistance available, accessing business opportunities and a session highlighting new EU member-states and the opportunities available.

It will run from 11.30am to 1.30pm and will include a buffet lunch. For information about the free event, call (0845) 0505054.