Brexit and local economic growth were among the issues in the spotlight when one of the country’s top business leaders visited Dorset.

British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) director general Dr Adam Marshall also urged ‘dynamic’ Dorset businesses to fight their corner and seize opportunities despite any political uncertainty.

His rallying cry came as he addressed members of Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) at the Italian Villa in Poole.

DCCI, which is Dorset’s leading business support organisation, is the only chamber of commerce in the county accredited to the BCC.

The BCC represents 52 chambers nationwide and is an influential voice in the corridors of power at Westminster.

Dr Marshall told members that the BCC was gaining traction in discussions with Cabinet ministers about practical issues affecting businesses in relation to Brexit.

Other priorities include boosting local growth and domestic economic policy covering such sticking points as roads congestion, broadband speeds and mobile signals.

Dr Marshall, who missed a meeting with a senior Cabinet minister to keep his commitment to visit DCCI, said: “We are making the case for business.

“Over the last few weeks and months, you may have seen the opprobrium and less than friendly attitudes come towards business.

“We’re pushing back against that very hard because what I see in Chambers over and over again are businesses who are great citizens in their communities, businesses who care very much about their people, and would do anything for their workforce.

“These are businesses who pay their tax bills and are making contributions back to the place where they do business because they know that their own success is only going to be as strong as the places where they live and work.”

Dr Marshall added: “Together we can campaign to get real changes on things that matter to business because our strength is in numbers.

“Being part of DCCI means you’re part of a business community and part of something bigger as well.

“With 52 chambers, 75,000 businesses employing 5m people around the UK, we are a force when we work together.”

More than 100 guests attended the Ivestec Wealth & Investment sponsored event, including president Vincent Boni.

Chief executive of DCCI, Ian Girling said: “Adam is a superb speaker and offered some compelling insights into the work of the BCC at a national level.

“The BCC is clearly doing a tremendous job and our thanks to Adam for coming to visit DCCI and speak to our members.”

For more details visit dcci.co.uk