Hundreds of people were today expected to attend a major exhibition in Oxford.

The Connect event is being billed as the largest of its kind to be held in the county and features more than 70 companies, with a turnover of £500,000 to £20m.

Ian Workman, area director for organiers Barclays Bank, said: "The exhibition will highlight the county's business innovation and expertise at its best."

Speakers include Sir Richard Needham, director for International and Commercial Affairs at Dyson and Hamish Stevenson, founder of the Oxford-based Fast Track organisation which publishes reports and league tables of business performance.

Mr Workman added: "It's not often, companies in Oxford have the opportunity to hear first hand from leading industry figures, as well as promoting their own products and services directly to other Oxfordshire businesses."

Chris Grigg, chief executive of Barclays Commercial Bank, will host an evening drinks reception following the main presentations and exhibition.

The 'Connect' Trade Fair takes place at the Kassam Stadium, Grenoble Road Oxford OX4 4XP between from 3-7pm.

To register a place contact the Barclays Commercial Bank Oxford Team on 01865 442112.