Around 100 local businesses and partner agencies attended an event last Thursday (28 August) at Ilford Town Hall, aimed at making sure they get the most out of the London 2012 Games.

The event, which was organised by the London Business Network in partnership with Redbridge Council, highlighted the numerous opportunities open to Redbridge businesses arising from the Olympic Games.

The event gave information on a range of Olympic-related contracts available to businesses and promoted the CompeteFor website which provides companies of all sizes access to thousands of opportunities supplying London 2012 contractors.

There was a full demonstration of the free website which encourages local businesses to register and apply for contracts online. The online application only takes 35 minutes to complete and tender opportunities are refreshed every seven days.

Cllr Linda Huggett, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and the Olympics, said, "Redbridge is a perfect place for lots of the 2012 contracts available due to its location and the vast range of businesses we have in the borough which provide good quality services and value for money.

"We want to help them as much as possible to ensure they maximise the many opportunities open to them."

Speakers at the event included Mark Lucas, Redbridge Council's Head of Regeneration, Lee Scott, Ilford North MP, Mike Mulvey, London Business Network Chief Executive and Gay Harrington, East London Business Place Director.

To find out how your business can benefit from London 2012 make sure you go to the CompeteFor website.