The diversity of Croydon's economy was evident at Business 2001 at the Fairfield last week.

The two-day event which started on Wednesday, October 10, organised by the Croydon Chamber Of Commerce, featured 120 Croydon firms keen to promote themselves to each other and the wider community.

It demonstrated the strength in depth of Croydon's industry and gave visitors the chance to hear guest speakers, including junior minister Barbara Roche MP.

The variety of stands included a caricaturist for web design company Eigo, rats and creepy crawlies at Cleankill and a rowing machine at Croydon Pools.

The Croydon Guardian was a big hit too, with its production of live front pages' for other stands and as host of a drinks reception in the Guardian-sponsored Privilege Lounge on Wednesday.

The chief executive of Croydon Chamber Of Commerce, Chris Hughes, said afterwards: "I'm really pleased with how it went. I think it had a good buzz. The instant reaction from visitors and exhibitors was very good.

"We might have wanted a few more bigger businesses and a few more visitors, but it was just up on last year.

"There was certainly more diversity this year.

"The Guardian support was much appreciated too. The Privilege Lounge looked great and the front pages went down very well."

Business 2001 was opened by the Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Peter Hopson, who was shown around the stands by Mr Hughes.

For more on Business 2001, see page 18.

October 23, 2001 17:00