HUNDREDS of companies from across the region will be urged to buy local at a business event on Thursday.

The fourth annual DL Business Expo at The Northern Echo Arena in Darlington gives businesses the chance to showcase their products and services to potential customers.

The free event was instigated by Darlington Business Club some years back and has gone from strength to strength with hundreds of companies supporting the campaign to boost the regional economy.

Businesses can turn up on the day to this free expo, but they are being advised to register online at www.darlingtonbusinessclub.co.uk

Graeme Rowatt, chairman of the business club, said: “It's going to be the largest showcase of businesses based in the Darlington and district area. We have increased the number of stands available from last year and they have all been filled.

"We are proud to be working in partnership with Darlington Mowden Park RFC, owners of the Northern Echo Arena, to provide a fantastic local venue for the occasion."

As well as being able to see the range of products and services on offer across the region, visitors can enjoy a series of seminars from high profile business speakers such as Michael Ryding, Director of DigitalCity Business, Nevil Tynemouth, LinkedIn expert, Dr Simon Raybould, presentation genius and many more.

In a coup for the region, international social media company Hootsuite is sending Dan Spicer, its EMEA Community Lead, to deliver the company’s first major seminar in the North East.

The event, which starts at 10.00am is backed by The Northern Echo, Darlington Business Club, Darlington Mowden Park RFC and Lingfield Point.