BARCLAYS bank held a free seminar for local businesses at the La Botte restaurant in Sidcup.

Thirty-five Bexley business people attended on June 7 to hear from Barclays how technology can support their banking activities.

The event in Main Road also featured Old Bexley Sidcup and MP James Brokenshire who gave his views on the future of the town.

There was a discussion on barriers to business growth which suggested solutions such as making the first two hours of parking free for customers.

Area business manager Harvey Reid said: "Local businesses are the lifeblood of the economy in Sidcup and my team has been working hard to support our customers through the recession.

"This event provided an opportunity for business people to take some time out from the pressures of running their companies, hear more about how Barclays can support them, and to network with other local people who face many of the same challenges."

James Brokenshire added: "It was great to have the opportunity to talk to the people behind a number of our local firms and discuss how we can work together for the benefit of Sidcup."