AN initiative set up by Caerphilly Business Forum aims to help successful businesses assist others in the borough to compete effectively in the market place.

The Achieving Success Network has been established, along with the division of the Cardiff Chamber of Trade to generate best practice in local businesses in a whole variety of topics including IT, human resources and research and development.

Through a series of breakfast seminars the new initiative has brought together smaller companies with world-leaders in a bid to improve their competitive edge.Cray Valley in Machen, part of the Atofina petrochemical multi national group, is a world leader in the manufacture of synthetic resins and is one of the scheme's ambassadors.

Martin Jones, training manager with Cray Valley said: "Cray Valley has a strong customer base and a multi-skilled workforce which gives us a strong foundation for the future. "Smaller companies do not always have that privilege.

"If we help them short cut to good working practices to secure their businesses long term, this has to be a positive thing."

Allan Meek, managing director of Smoke Control Services in Bedwas, said: "The Achieving Success Network is about seeing best practice work locally which makes it all the more appropriate.

"It's linking the theory and the practice."

Maureen Weaver, human resource manager at Giroflex in Hengoed said: "The topics have all been relevant and useful. The group also provides me with a chance to network. A seminar called Achieving Success through Product Development will be held on Thursday, at RF Brookes, Rogerstone. To book a place call John Edney on (01443) 864311.

*PICTURED: Pictured at Cray Valley in Machen are (from left) Gareth Price, of Giroflex, Hengoed, Martin Jones, of Cray Valley, and Allan Meek, of Smoke Control Services, Bedwas.