A NEW organisation will be launched to promote the joint interests of Lyme Regis businesses.

The Lyme Regis Business Group (LRBG) aims to provide the town’s businesses with a strong and unified voice to be represented at the town and district councils and when seeking funding for local initiatives.

Town and district councillor George Symonds has pulled together the town’s various groups and persuaded them to work together as a single body.

Coun Symonds said: “There are currently several organisations in Lyme Regis that seek to represent the town's business interests.

“I firmly believe that by bringing these organisations together, the town's business community will have a much stronger voice and greater credibility when negotiating with local government bodies and particularly in relation to securing funding for local initiatives on behalf of the town.”

LRBG will draw its membership from Lyme Traders Organisation, Lyme Regis Hotel and Restaurant Association and Cobb Traders, as well as the area's broader business community, including all areas of commerce, service providers and tradesmen.

“All these organisations have put a great deal of thought and effort into bringing the new group to fruition,” said Coun Symonds.

“And their commitment to working together is a clear indication that Lyme's business community is determined that the town continues to enjoy a strong and vibrant economic future that supports our resident population as well as seasonal visitors.”

An inaugural meeting of LRBG is on Wednesday, July 3 at the Pilot Boat Inn from 6pm. The group will be fully constituted and have an executive committee of up to six members, plus a chairman, vice-chairman, treasurer and secretary.

Everyone with a business based in Lyme Regis, or trading in the town, is invited to attend.

Anyone interested in being involved in LRBG can contact Coun Symonds at cllg.symonds@westdorset-dc.gov.uk.