THE first of a programme of overseas visits to help companies make contacts abroad begins next month.

More than 20 businesses from the region will set off to explore opportunities in Australia.

This year, the North-East branch of UK Trade and Investment has developed a programme of trips for companies, where they will be accompanied by an experienced international trade advisor.

It is proving so popular that more than twice as many firms as expected have signed up for the visit to Melbourne.

John Williams, the North-East's international trade director, said: "Not only was the selection of the programme for 2005-06 demand-led through consultation with our team of international trade advisors, but the whole process is managed within the region which makes it much more a service supplied by our region to our region."

John Doolan, international trade advisor who is leading the trip, said: "The visit is flexible and the companies can stay for longer, visit Sydney as an extra option and plan stop-overs on the way."

About 20 more visits to countries are due to be offered under the regional programme this year and next. For details, log on to www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk or call 0845 050 5054.