THE new Swindon Chamber of Commerce is up and running and has been formed without any local businesses having the chance to say yes and no.

The Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Group, which has nine other chambers under its umbrella, moved in to take over the interests of the old chamber which went bust in the new year and is now in liquidation.

"It's very much a case of fait accompli," said one businessman at a meet and greet evening for Swindon business by the Thames Valley Chamber at the HTS Lydiard Park venue.

"But there seems to be a fair amount of interest and I'm sure firms will want to join."

Generally the chamber message was well received.

The chief executive Paul Briggs said it was important for prospective members to have the financial stability which the Thames Valley could provide.

In addition there were the 2,600 companies which were members of his group and which could help potential Swindon members.

"We are delighted to be able to extend our services to include Swindon businesses and the evening was a great opportunity to expand our knowledge on the needs of the region.

"It was equally important for the chamber to have the chance to explain to the Swindon community the full range of services we offer to grow and develop their businesses."

Although there was no opportunity to ask questions Christina Howell, who is the head of external affairs for Thames Valley, said she had been in touch with a number of Swindon's large companies like Honda, BT and National Express and was happy to visit any company who might want more information.

Gavin Sheppard, head of commercial development, said a number of Swindon firms were already members of his organisation. A number joined during the event.

David Pratt, of Swindon's HR and Diversity Management, said: "The management team were approachable and able to answer questions about support that can be expected from their team.

"We were impressed by the group of professionals who had experience of supporting both large and small organisations."

Last week's event was based around the chamber's five ways to realise their business potential: meet your next big customer; cut cost and create time; access business intelligence; develop your workforce; and influence your local business climate.

The Thames Valley chamber works with businesses across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.

For more information call 01793 874600.