A BUSINESS group has become the first in east Dorset to link with the county-wide Dorset Chamber of Trade and Industry (DCCI).

Broadstone Chamber of Trade and Commerce says signing the deal will give it more influence and boost its work attracting trade to the area.

Its chairman, Simon Merry, joined DCCI chief executive Ian Girling to sign the paperwork at the county chamber’s Poole headquarters.

Mr Girling said: “We are gaining considerable momentum with Broadstone becoming the first chamber in east Dorset to become affiliated to DCCI.

“Broadstone will retain its independence and character but by standing together we are stronger.

“We will have more influence at local and national level but also work in close partnership to support members and drive business growth.”

DCCI is accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and Broadstone members will be able to take part in national BCC surveys to influence government policy.

DCCI, the voice of business in Dorset with more than 740 members, is the county chamber accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Mr Merry joined a recent Dorset delegation to the BCC conference in London, where speakers included David Cameron, Nick Clegg and shadow chancellor Ed Balls.

Mr Merry said: “Broadstone is the only chamber in Dorset dedicated to a suburban commercial area rather than a town.

“As a forward-thinking chamber we share DCCI’s vision and are proud to become the first in east Dorset to become officially affiliated. It will support us in our aim to make Broadstone first choice for local retail, services and leisure.”

The Broadstone chamber, which has 98 members, aims to draw more trade into the area and support the local economy. It meets quarterly and holds two networking events a month.

Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce (WPCC) became the first in chamber county to affiliate to DCCI last September.