SPEAKERS at the South West Expo inspired guests with their stories of determination and overcoming failure.

While many visitors packed out Steam's Great Western Hall to network and browse the stalls, several others attended talks, workshops and masterclasses at the expo.

Somerset businessman Paul Waite of Paul Waite Associates trebled his company in just a few months and came to Swindon to share the secrets to his success.

He said: "It's always a pleasure to come to Swindon because it's a place I have a lot of empathy for, having been a big fan of the football team in the 60s, and it's part of my business community kingdom.

"I think it's a really buzzing and vibrant place to be with a lot of talented people who have shared values.

"My speech was all about giving back and what I've learned while going from being a failure to someone who is considered to be very innovative.

"Hopefully, it will help businesses in their journey so they find it easier than I did. People responded well to it because I'm genuine and talk from the heart."

Paralympian Naomi Riches MBE spoke about her long and difficult journey to being part of a Gold-winning Olympic rowing team and her work with company Thomas International's sport and education divisions.

While Naomi was on stage, Thomas spokeswoman Helen Richards told the Adver: "She's often in Swindon and always has a friendly experience because everyone is so supportive, so she wanted to support this event and local businesses."