A bestselling author will be the keynote speaker at the launch of a networking group near Witney next month.

Networking expert Stefan Thomas is set to speak at the launch of the Witney Cotswold Networking Group at Minster Mill Hotel and Spa, in Minster Lovell, on September 5.

The Witney resident of nearly 30 years wrote 'Business Networking for Dummies' and 'Win The Room'.

With extensive experience as a speaker and trainer, he delivers talks and provides training across Europe for companies such as BT, Lloyds Bank and Utility Warehouse.

He will centre his speech on how to network successfully, relaying personal experiences while suggesting techniques on forming business relationships via networking.

He has been a keynote speaker on similar occasions for Cotswold Networking's earlier launches in Cheltenham and Bath due to his "engaging and practical approach".

He said: "Cotswold Networking launching in Witney is such brilliant news for the businesses in West Oxfordshire, and for Cotswold businesses who want to connect with us.

“My first full time job was in Witney in 1988, and I first got involved in networking groups in Witney in 2006."

He added: "I'm so passionate about the business sector in Witney, and any opportunity to allow local businesses to build connections further afield - and right on our doorstep, is brilliant news.

"There is nowhere I'd rather be on a September evening than Minster Mill. I'm hoping for a glass of fizz outside when I finish speaking."

Angela Roberts, founder of Cotswold Networking Group, said: "We’re delighted that Stefan has agreed to be our keynote speaker for the launch of this new group.

"His expertise and knowledge in effective networking are highly regarded in the small business world.

"After the overwhelmingly positive response we received from his previous talks, inviting him back was an easy decision."

The launch of the Witney group marks the beginning of a series of monthly networking meetups, building connections and relationships among business professionals.

Cotswold Networking, already established in Cirencester, Malmesbury, Cheltenham, and Bath, continues its expansion with this new group aimed at engaging business owners in and around Witney.

The new group will meet monthly, often on a Tuesday evening, with extra opportunities to meet up for social events and also to visit the other more established groups.

People can visit Cotswold Networking meetups twice before they are asked to become a member to continue. To visit the Witney group, individuals can book a place via the Cotswold Networking website.