THE biggest business event in Wycombe's calendar returns next Tuesday to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of the area.

The Wycombe Business Expo aims to help firms network, cultivate trade and boost their profiles.

The Expo was first established to address the lack of a flagship event to support the strong business community in the Wycombe area.

It was the brainchild of entrepreneur Elton Boocock, who formed it when he realised how obvious it was that the town should have its own Expo.

He said: "The fact that such an event did not exist was incredible.

"The whole event is run as a not for profit venture with the single aim of helping you and your business within the Wycombe district.

"Help like that doesn’t come around every day. In fact, just one day every year. All you need to do is to come along, talk to people and get involved."

Last year Mr Boocock and his team had a Wizard of Oz theme to the Urban Media stand, with Dorothy, a Tin Man and a Wicked Witch all helping attract passers-by.

For the second year running the event takes place at the Vere Suit at Adams Park, on October 21. In previous years it had been held at Cressex Community School in the half-term week - feedback from delegates suggested the Expo would be more welcome outside of the school break.

The event is open to visitors on Tuesday, October 21, from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

Exhibitors for the 2013 event include Bucks New University, Urban Media, Missenden Abbey, Right Hand HR, Marlow FM, Buckinghamshire Business First and Thames Graphics, while sponsors include Wycombe District Council, Sivatech Business Solutions and Wycombe Wanderers FC.

Kicking off the day will be a networking breakfast which runs from 8am to 9.30am before the Expo opens its doors to additional visitors.

For more information, to exhibit or to sign up for the breakfast event, go to www.wycombebusinessexpo.com