DORSET Chamber of Commerce & Industry has overcome a "tough, transitional" year and is poised to increase its services to boost membership, its AGM was told.

DCCI plans to extend its number of networking events involving local authorities and MEPs to give businesses a greater voice in key local issues. It already runs events with MPs.

Outgoing DCCI president Eddie Salter of Blandford-based SKC urged members to get the most out of the services on offer.

"If you join the chamber you have to use it," he told members meet at the Haven Hotel, Sandbanks. Joining DCCI and then not making use of the help that it offered was like owning a car and not driving it, he added.

New president Roger Woolley of Lester Aldridge praised Mr Salter's hands-on leadership: "Eddie was everywhere. He has been at the front of house on nearly every conceivable occasion."

Chambers across the UK have had a difficult year and DCCI was no exception. DCCI's split from Business Link Dorset and consequent move to more expensive premises were among the factors that resulted in a loss for year to March 31, 2002.

DCCI made an operating loss of £14,618 (2001: £7,862 loss) and incurred an exceptional restructuring charge of £21,909 as a result of its move, albeit to adjoining premises at Stinsford Road, Nuffield.

Turnover was £547,768 (2001: £578,966). Interest from investments generated £8,937 (2001: £11,531). The loss transferred from reserves was £26,858 (2001: £2,932).

Finance director Stephen Hall said: "The beginning of the current year has not been easy. Hard decisions have been made and implemented. We are confident that these difficult times will be overcome."

But DCCI's Dorset Business South magazine, published in conjunction with the Daily Echo, had performed "better than expected", he added.

Elected as vice-presidents were Gordon Page and Chris Brickell. Newly-elected and re-elected directors are: Chris Appleton; Richard Dimbleby; Mike Emsley; Felicity Hedger; Peter Hastrop; Glyn Jones; Howard Lee; Francis Osborne and James Stewart.

To join DCCI, or for more information, contact Lorna Trent, 01202 448839 or (www.dcci.co.uk).