Businesses were given an insight into the workings of a local insurance firm at the Granby Business Breakfast.

A drop-in networking event was held at The Print Centre on Wednesday and was well attended by Weymouth's business community.

Craig Oakes, who runs Oakes Insure, was invited to discuss the work he has been doing since launching his business last year and described the services he provides.

He said: “I help put people in a position so they’re prepared for when an incident happens, for example, if there is a car accident, or a business burns down. It can be any insurable peril, we will provide insurance to cover it.

“We try to cater to the needs of the particular person. I am a general insurance broker, so when people pick up the phone or go on our website they could be thinking about anything. They don’t necessarily know what they need or how to do it, so I help guide them.”

Mr Oakes, who has been running Oakes Insure for less than a year, said it can be difficult for new businesses finding their feet, and added: “I was lucky enough to get nominated by someone for the best new business award of this year’s industry awards, and that all helps raise awareness about what I am doing."

Mr Oakes, is also the Vice President of Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce, and said the networking breakfast has given him the chance to promote the work he has been doing.

He explained: “It has been great to promote my business and is useful to meet the different people that came to the breakfast.

“Through the banners we have been able to show all the different range of insurance we offer.

“It’s another addition to the strong networking community we have here in Weymouth.”

Debbie Hellaby, Promotions Manager at the Dorset Echo said: "Following the success of the Dorset Echo Industry Awards and the opportunities that have developed for local businesses through the associated networking, we recognised that there was a need for a flexible drop-in networking event located on the Granby Industrial Estate. Each breakfast meeting hosts an advice session where guests can informally chat on a one-to-one basis and seek advice on a particular topic. We are delighted that the Granby Business Breakfast is continuing to develop business relationships and provides a platform from which we identify mutual partnerships for the future."