Cumbria Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Network Dinner brought together 150 guests from local businesses to the Castle Green Hotel in Kendal on Friday.
The Chamber’s Derek Armstrong kicked off the evening, keeping the crowd entertained with his usual wit! Derek awarded prizes for the fastest and slowest table sponsors to submit their guests’ names with Armstrong Watson taking the top prize of a bottle of champagne and Harrison Drury claiming the dreaded wooden spoon!
Chamber President Allan Wilson followed with an uplifting speech on the strength and ingenuity of Cumbrian businesses and the importance of working together. Managing Director Suzanne Caldwell then talked about the Chamber’s work, in partnership with a range of stakeholders, supporting and representing the interests of Cumbrian businesses. Suzanne also raised a toast to the Royal Port of Barrow, which had just been awarded royal status the previous week in recognition of its contribution to the nation’s security.
Jonathan Brook, Leader of Westmorland and Furness Council, reflected on the success of the council since Local Government Reorganisation two years ago and investment going into Cumbria’s infrastructure.
Before dinner, Ewan Frost-Pennington from Chamber Partner Muncaster Castle, talked about his return to Cumbria, having worked internationally for 15 years, remarking that Cumbia’s is the best business community he’s ever been part of.
Rounding off the evening, Sales and Marketing Director at Windermere Lake Cruises, Jennifer Cormack, delivered an inspiring after-dinner speech. She talked about her career journey, the impact of international politics on business, and the challenges of the pandemic. She also shared stories from her trade missions around the world, where she’s been flying the flag for Cumbria and the Lake District.
Suzanne Caldwell said:
“We’d like to thank all of our table sponsors, speakers and everyone who joined us for our 2025 Annual Network Dinner! It was fantastic to bring together members, partners and other stakeholders to celebrate the successes of the business community. Our theme for the event was ‘working in partnership’ and it was inspiring to hear so many speakers share examples how collaboration is driving progress. We’re all so much more effective together than we can be alone. With the opportunities of devolution on the horizon, there’s a real buzz about the future, and we’re excited to continue supporting Cumbrian businesses to navigate and capitalise on the changes.”
