I thought I would share some of my observations regarding this year's event.

It has been both gratifying and extremely interesting to chart the 'baby's growth' since last year's inaugural fair at the Corn Hall.

There has been a lot of talk about Diss as the gateway to East Anglia and, for once, it seems not to be just wishful thinking.

While Diss On View is billed as a support for local business, it is now clear that 'local' has expanded to Norwich, Ipswich and surrounds.

We truly are recognised as a gateway and the links forged over the past year continue to grow.

Just last week, Diss Business Forum was still getting enquiries for exhibition space from Norfolk and Suffolk businesses. We are over-subscribed so could not help, but all the companies asked to be put on our waiting list for next year. And those who were disappointed all said they were going to come anyway to view the fair.

This is heartening to all of us at the forum, who have worked so hard to make Diss On View a success for us, for our wider community and for business in our area.

Spreading the word, creating the brand, engaging the speakers and organising logistics is really a full-time job.

I think, if you attend, you will see it was all worthwhile… especially given the economic news of the past week or so. Business here is showing it is serious.

Don't forget, if you know of a start-up or SME that needs a 'refresh', Articulate HLC is giving away a prize web, branding, marketing and PR "Kick Start" package valued at £2,000.

The ante has been upped, with Diss On View sponsor the Diss Express adding a media profile package to the prize, with a value of at least another £900, among other prizes.

Good luck and good day to all… I look forward to meeting you at Diss Golf Club between 11am and 6pm today.

Jenna Cox, managing partner of Articulate HLC, web and graphic design, marketing and PR agency, is a Diss Business Forum member.