Social networking pioneer to speak at rural conference

Social networking pioneer Penny Power OBE is among the speakers lined up for Surrey’s Countryside and Rural Enterprise Conference next week looking at how working better together and innovation can enhance the county’s rural areas.

The entrepreneur and author, who founded the UK’s first social network for business in 1998, will be speaking about digital opportunities and how they can drive the rural economy.

She will be joined at the conference by Surrey Countryside and Rural Enterprise Forum chairman Simon Whalley and Brian Wilson, the chairman of the UK Rural Policy and Practitioners Group.

Other speakers include Stephanie Fudge, head of site at RHS Wisley, Tracy Carroll, founder of Local Food Surrey, and Alison Field, area director at the Forestry Commission. Surrey County Council’s Deputy Leader Peter Martin and Cabinet Member for Environment and Planning Mike Goodman will also attend.

Mr Goodman said: “Surrey’s beautiful landscape is very important to us, our residents and visitors. I have no doubt that everyone involved in this event is committed to working together to enhance our countryside and ensure the rural economy goes from strength to strength while also working in partnership to meet the challenges of the future.”

The event takes place on Thursday 26 March at the HG Wells Conference Centre, Woking (9am-4pm). For more information or to book a place contact David Greenwood at david.greenwood@surreycc.gov.uk or call 0208 541 7005.