BREXIT uncertainty was banished – for one night at least – when Cumbria Chamber of Commerce and South Lakeland District Council held their annual Partners’ Dinner.

Around 230 people attended the black-die event at the Castle Green Hotel, Kendal, last Friday.

Normally, a leading politician or senior academic addresses the gathering but this time two successful local businesses took centre stage.

Rob Johnston, Chief Executive of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “With all the noise and confusion around Brexit weighing heavily on businesses, we wanted an upbeat message to give everyone a lift.

“We certainly got that from Barry Leahey, of Playdale Playgrounds in Haverthwaite, who outlined how his business began exporting and now sells its products in 49 countries.

“It came across loud and clear that Playdale benefits from being in South Lakeland, manufacturing all its products here with a very loyal and dedicated workforce.

“Then we heard from Jennifer Cormack, of Windermere Lake Cruises and the English Lake District China Forum, who has been working to capitalise on direct flights from Beijing to Manchester to bring thousands of Chinese visitors here.

“They both have a ‘can-do’ attitude, which is inspirational. Everyone left the event with a spring in their step.”

Cllr Eric Morrell, chairman of South Lakeland Council, made the opening speech at the dinner.

Rob added: “The Partners’ Dinner celebrates the excellent working relationship between the Chamber and South Lakeland Council.

“The Council understands the challenges that businesses face and works hard with the Chamber to alleviate them.

“It is one of the funding partners behind Cumbria Business Growth Hub, the Chamber’s business support initiative that we set up in 2012.

“Since then, we’ve worked with 7,200 businesses – including more than 1,000 in South Lakeland – helping to create or safeguard 7,000 jobs.”