Finance and professional services were the subjects for discussion at the latest Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce ‘sector forum’.

The series – sponsored by Manx Telecom – is organised through a partnership between the Isle of Man and Wirral Chambers of Commerce and aims to allow businesses to share ideas and benefit from networking opportunities.

The forums began in February and focus on a different sector of the island’s economy each month, building links between business sectors here and in the north west of England.

The finance and professional services forum was held at the impressive offices of Cains Advocates, Fort Anne, South Quay, Douglas.

Isle of Man organisations represented at the event included Barclays, Bold Consultancy, Cyber Science, Hamblin, Isle of Man Post Office, MannBenham Advocates, Simply Secure and Hansard International.

The Wirral delegation was led by Gordon Andrews, Bathgate Business Finance and Wirral Chamber’s F&P Sector Forum Chair; and Frank Rogers, Kirwans Solicitors and Vice Chair of Wirral Cham-ber’s F&P Sector Forum. Gordon Andrews said: ‘This was a very positive and open event in which businesses were able to meet and exchange views on the best ways in which new partnerships can be made, and how these will work for the benefits of both Wirral and Isle of Man based businesses.’

Paula Basnett, CEO Wirral Chamber of Commerce, said: ‘This was a very positive event and brought together many of the leading organisations in both respective financial and professional services sectors.

‘We will be following up with the contacts made and working closely with colleagues in the Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce to strengthen links made, and to bring about positive and effective actions in the weeks ahead.’

Stuart Nelson, chairman of Isle of Man Chamber’s FPS Committee, said: ‘It was great to welcome over the members of the finance and professional services sector of the Wirral Chamber of Commerce. A really productive time was had with lots of opportunities to explore for all those involved.

‘We look forward to the reciprocal visit in the coming months, and developing a long term mutually beneficial relationship.’

Rebecca George, chief operating officer at Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce, said: ‘Our sector forums series continues to gather momentum, and we’re extremely grateful for the support from all the key speakers and guests.

‘We must also say a special thank you to Cains Advocates for hosting the finance and professional services forum, and to Manx Telecom who are now the main sponsor for the sector forum series.’