Over 100 Lincolnshire business people created a buzz at the launch of the Team Lincolnshire Ambassador programme at the end of November.

The LEP and Lincolnshire County Council relaunched the scheme at the Doubletree by Hilton hotel in Lincoln and encouraged Lincolnshire business people to sign up as ambassadors for the area.

Team Lincolnshire had been an informal group of business people who help to promote Lincolnshire, particularly at the annual MIPIM property show in Cannes.

Now it is a fully fledged ambassador programme with paid membership, networking opportunities and a marketing toolkit to help members champion Greater Lincolnshire.

Speaking at the launch were Jill McCarthy, Head of the Growth Team in Economic Development at Lincolnshire County Council; Ruth Carver, Director of the Greater Lincolnshire LEP; Councillor Colin Davie, LEP Board Director and county councillor; and two Team Lincolnshire members: Tim Downing from estate agents Pygott and Crone and Eric Hilton of Nutrapharma.

“All of us here are immensely proud of Lincolnshire,” said Ruth Carver. “We keep hearing that Lincolnshire needs to shout louder about itself, that it’s a hidden gem, that it’s the best kept secret in the East Midlands.

“Team Lincolnshire really wants to change that perception and tell everybody that we’re open for business.

“We’re bringing together like-minded people who are proud, positive and passionate about Lincolnshire. We want to shout louder and make Team Lincolnshire a more formal ambassador programme. It’s time to turn the volume up!”

Tim Downing told his audience: “Ladies and gentlemen, the secret is out! Lincolnshire is now on the radar of regional, national and international businesses.

“Being a member of Team Lincolnshire has really benefited my business, and in my opinion a more collaborative approach works much better. We now have a fantastic opportunity to take Lincolnshire to the next level.”

The annual subscription fee to join Team Lincolnshire is £350 per business per year. To find out more email teamlincolnshire@lincolnshire.gov.uk or telephone 01522 550618.