BUSINESSMEN and women will be able to air their views at West Devon Borough Council's Business Rates Consultative Forum next week.

More than 1,200 firms from across the borough have been invited to the annual event which, this year, takes place at the council chamber at the council's offices at Kilworthy Park, Tavistock.

The evening on Monday January 18 is an ideal opportunity for businesses to examine local, regional and national commerce issues against the backdrop of the credit crunch and the recession.

Speakers include Trudie Wills of the Valuation Office Agency who will discuss the rating revaluation process for 2010.

West Devon Borough Council's head of finance, Lisa Buckle, will also be giving an overview of the authority's budget for the next financial year. A representative from Devon County Council will also be discussing the county's budget.

The forum starts at 6.30pm with light refreshments available from 6pm onwards. For further information contact Lisa Buckle on 01822 813644 or email [email protected]">[email protected]