Meet The Local View Team
The Local View is an established business community based in Peterborough serving local clients across Peterborough, Fenland and Cambridge covering the whole of Cambridgeshire.
 
The Local View is headed up by Directors Sara Hemp and Julie Marsh. Sara is a digital marketing specialist with over 25 years’ experience helping business owners get more sales, build strategies and support them with their marketing activities no matter what digital platform they are using. She also educates and trains business owners to use use online tools helping them create and manage their own coantent online and improve their online presence.

Julie has over 25 years’ experience in HR, she makes a difference through solving complex HR issues and empowering businesses through people solutions. As a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and an Accredited Coach, she supports organisations with everything from HR strategy and development to coaching and people analytics.

Together they run The Local View Business Expo’s in Peterborough. Designed to support the local business community, actively helping their clients – exhibitors and sponsors to create networking opportunities and build lasting relationships.
 
Helping Local Businesses Sustainably Grow
As established business owners (respectively Creative Remedy and Apiary Solutions) one of the biggest challenges that we have already faced, is to find good methods of attracting customers to our own businesses, working within a supportive environment and the ability to sustainably grow. This is what The Local View brings; in-person solutions, passing on their knowledge and experience of having attended and exhibition at local and national exhibitions.
 
The Local View Lauches First Business Expo
The Local View launched their first business expo in September 2024, literally kicking it open with Annabel Murcott. The expo brought together 40 exhibitors and 320 local business owners to network, showcase products and services, demos and provide a platform for industry leading speakers to deliver engaging talks on topics relevant to local businesses from AI to Marketing, Sales and Performance through to Mental Wellbeing in the Workplace.
 
PCR FM and the Kev Lawrance Breakfast Show Opens Second Business Expo
Their second Business Expo also at the Kingsgate Conference Centre was an even bigger success, partnering with PCR 103.2 FM and the Kev Lawrance Breakfast Show adding energy to opening the event. Kev Lawrance interviewed 12 local businesses live throughout the event, giving businesses a platform to reach over twenty five thousand listeners on DAB radio.
 
Third Business Expo set to be an Even Bigger Success
The Local View has set a date for their next Business Expo at the KingsGate Conference Centre on Thursday 2nd October. They have already made great inroads to bringing the local business community together for another show stopping event. Partnering again with PCR 103.2 FM and the Kev Lawrance Breakfast Show with Keynote Speakers Sukhi Wahiwala –‘Say Goodbye to Procrastination’ and Mike Greene – ‘ Business: Adapt or Die…’. This Business Expo is sponsored by; CR Smith Virtual PA, Fuzzy Brick, Steven Eagell Toyota, CPCA Growth Hub
 
Photo credit: Nate Lansdell - A Smile A Day Photography

More 350 businesses took the opportunity to showcase their products and services at the second annual Local View expo in Peterborough.

The event, which was staged at the Kingsgate Conference Centre, was held to help local businesses to be seen and to grow.

As well as exhibiting their products, businesspeople also got the network and to explore new suppliers.
There were presentations by experts such as Anne-Marie Lategan of Your Marketing Network, Isabella Green from Hegarty, Karen Fourie and Ruth Beck of MAGPAS Air Ambulance, Kaffy Rice-Oxley from Voice Confident and entrepreneur Mike Greene.

The event was opened by Kev Lawrence of Peterborough City Radio (PCR FM)

The Local View Director Sara said: “Networking remains at the heart of our Business Expo, offering businesses the chance to connect with potential clients, partners, and suppliers.

"Sponsors will benefit from heightened brand visibility, extended reach through our online platforms, and speaking slots on industry leading topics to engage deeply with the local business audience.

She added: “Our next Business Expo is on October 2 and to secure your spot as a sponsor or an exhibitor contact The Local View as soon as possible.”

Source: More than 300 businesses turn out for Peterborough's second annual Local View expo Peterborough Telegraph. Article written by Paul Grinnell, 31st March 2025. 

Connecting Peterborough’s Business Community. Following the resounding success of our inaugural Business Expo in September 2024, The Local View launched its second business expo on Thursday, 13th March 2025, at the KingsGate Conference Centre in Peterborough. 

The business expo saw over 350 local businesses come together to showcase their new products and services, network, explore new suppliers, watch demos and see industry leading experts such as Anne-Marie Lategan of Your Marketing Network, Isabella Green from Hegarty, Karen Fourie and Ruth Beck of MAGPAS Air Ambulance, Kaffy Rice-Oxley from Voice Confident and Mike Greene deliver engaging talks. The event was opened by Kev Lawrence of Peterborough City Radio (PCR FM) and the Kev Lawrence Breakfast Show 103.2 FM creating real energy amongst local businesses.

Building on momentum, the business expo provided an even more enriching platform for local enterprises to “Be Seen, Grow Your Business, Build Your Brand.” 12 lucky exhibitors were interviewed live on air through-out the event, giving business owners a taste of on-air digital marketing. 25,000 local listeners could share the experience whilst learning about all the businesses in their community.

The Local View partnership with PCR FM – Peterborough City Radio. The Local View Director Sara states; “We’re beyond excited that Kev Lawrence from PCR FM ’s Breakfast Show (103.2 FM) officially opened The Local View Business Expo! Kev and his team are fantastic to work with and Local businesses could experience on the day what a fantastic platform radio is as part of your digital marketing plan, with excellent reach.“

The Local View Event Organiser Julie says; “PCR FM is a non-profit, volunteer-driven community radio station dedicated to serving the Peterborough area. The station’s mission is to deliver engaging live music, local events coverage, and community-focused content, acting as a central hub for information and entertainment tailored to the diverse population of Peterborough. Partnering with PCR FM reinforces our joint values focusing on the local business community first.

Networking remains at the heart of our Business Expo, offering businesses the chance to connect with potential clients, partners, and suppliers. Sponsors will benefit from heightened brand visibility, extended reach through our online platforms, and speaking slots on industry leading topics to engage deeply with the local business audience. Our next Business Expo is on 2nd October, to secure your spot as a sponsor or an exhibitor contact The Local View now and join them in fostering a vibrant business ecosystem in Peterborough.

Source: Peterborough Matters The Local View Business Expo 13th March 2025.
Photo credit: Nate Lansdell of A Smile A Day Photography

If you are not currently part of a local networking group in Peterborough you are missing out on a great opportunity to learn from your peers and share tips and best practice. 

If you are experiencing business issues, want to bounce ideas, source new suppliers or just simply build your network, here are just a few great reasons why attending a regular networking group can help you and your business:

• Be part of your local thriving community
• Gain access to potential new customers
• Meet like minded individuals
• Get referrals/recommendations
• Meet suppliers
• Boost brand awareness
• Promote your products, services or events

We’ve put together a list of local networking groups to make it easier for you to find the perfect groups for you and your business:

Ask, Share, Connect – Your Marketing Network
A monthly small business meet-up where you can ask questions, get expert advice and connect with others to overcome
your marketing challenges.
Contact: Anne-Marie Lategan [email protected]
When: Wednesday 22nd January 2025, then every third wednesday of the month, 10:00am- 12:00pm
Web: www.yourmarketing.network

BNI Synergy Peterborough
A referral networking group that meets weekly at Allia Future Business Centre.
Contact: Thornton Holmes Apply to visit
When: Wednesdays @ 6:30 am
Web: www.bnibreakfast.co.uk

BNI Quantum Peterborough
A referral networking group that meets weekly at Eventus Business Centre in market Deeping.
Contact: Rachel Stuart Apply to visit
When: Thursdays @ 8:15 am
Web: www.bnibreakfast.co.uk

Business Buzz Cambridgeshire 
Vibrant, welcoming networking events in Peterborough & Cambridge in Cambridgeshire
Contact: Stephen Spencer [email protected]
Peterborough: Meet every 3rd Tuesday of the month, 10 am-12 pm, Cambridgeshire
Cambridge: Meeting every 1st Thursday of each month between 10am-12pm.
Web: www.business-buzz.org/cambridgeshire

Cadre Rocket
Cadre Rocket is a business networking group for SMEs and freelancers in the Cambridge and Peterborough regions.
Contact: Ricke Williams [email protected]
When: Twice a month online.
Web: www.cadrerocket.com

Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce 
The Chamber provides many opportunities for members to widen their network of business contacts
Contact: [email protected]
When: Various weekly events
Web: www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

Creative Content Company
Looking to network in Peterborough for free while supporting a local business?
Contact: [email protected]
When: Various monthly events
Web: Eventbrite

Entrepreneurs Circle Peterborough
Every month, some of the most switched-on business owners in Peterborough get together, NOT to ‘network’, but to focus on one thing… growing their business!
Contact: [email protected]
When: Monthly events
Web: www.entrepreneurscircle.org

Flagship Fengate Network Event
Fengate Network Event in Peterborough for a morning of networking and collaboration with local businesses!
Contact: [email protected]
When: Monthly event
Web: Eventbrite

In the Hive
Network at a fantastic space bringing people together for business networking, not to mention some fabulous food, with spectacular views of the stunning Cathedral.
Contact: [email protected]
When: Wednesday 12th February, Becket’s Tea Room
Web: www.queenbeeandco.co.uk

Last Wednesday Business Breakfast
Informal breakfast networking at The Hampton Brewers Fayre
Contact: Dean Crago
When: 7:30am – Last Wednesday of every month
Web: https://www.facebook.com/groups/333853056795923

Link4Business 
Helps to easily connect with other business owners
Contact: Nikki Pepper www.link4business.co.uk/contact
When: Various events
Web: www.link4business.co.uk

Link4Growth 
An Association owned and directed by its members whose main aim is for people to come together and have conversations
Contact: Nikki Pepper www.uk.link4growth.org/contactus.html
When: Various
Web: www.uk.link4growth.org

Metro Bank
Join James Zimmer-Smith and many other local businesses at the Metro Bank Peterborough to celebrate Financial Literacy Month.
Contact: James Zimmer-Smith [email protected]
When: Wednesday 9th April 3-4:45pm
Web: Eventbrite

The Original Business Club 
For business leaders, executives and professionals who share a passion for knowledge, growth and development
Contact: Dan Russell [email protected]
When: Fortnightly at the Holiday Inn, Peterborough
Web: www.theoriginalbusinessclub.co.uk

1Networking 
A group for networkers looking for referrals, introductions, opportunities and sales
Contact: Gary Thorpe
When: Various
Web: www.1networking.biz

Rutland Chamber of Commerce 
The Rutland Chamber provides many opportunities for members to widen their network of business contacts.
Contact: [email protected]
When: Various weekly events
Web: www.rutland-chamber.co.uk

The Pineapple Network 
Supportive local business network for those who want to cheerlead for themselves and others.
Contact: [email protected]
When: In person, 9:30am – 11:30am monthly
Web: Eventbrite

Whittlesey and District Business Community
A local networking group to support businesses and sole traders based in Whittlesey
When: Every last Wednesday of the month – arrive 6pm for a 6:30pm start at the Falcon Hotel Whittlesey.
Web: www.whittleseybusinesscommunity.co.uk

Women’s Business Network at Brightfield Business Hub 
Bringing ambitious women together to network, learn and grow
Contact: [email protected]
When: Monthly
Web: www.brightfieldbusinesshub.co.uk

Do you want your business networking group added to our list? Please contact Sara [email protected] with your details.

Scores of businesses attended the first hard-hitting expo organised by a new enterprising group in Peterborough.
 
The Local View hosted its first business expo at the Kingsgate Conference Centre in a bid to help local business- es to 'Be Seen, Grow Their Business, Build Their Brand.
 
The event was opened by Annabel Murcott, the owner of Annabel Murcott Schools of Tae Kwon Do, who kicked things off by demonstrating her martial arts skills-breaking a plank of wood with her bare feet.
 
Annabel was the first British woman to gain an 8th Dan black belt in Tae Kwon Do and she has 10 branches of her Tae Kwon Do schools across Peterborough and Lincolnshire.
 
Sara Hemp, who organised the event with her business partner Julie Marsh, said the aim was to help local business owners network, source new suppliers, see new product demos and hear talks on industry leading topics.
 
Afterwards, organiser Sara, said: "About 320 local businesses attended.
"It was a fantastic turnout for our first expo.”
 
“We’ve had wonderful feedback. Those who attended say they made sales, generated new leads and had some fantastic conversations."
 
The Local View provides an affordable platform for businesses to promote themselves online.
 
Sara added: "We decided to put on the expo because we recognised that not everything can be done online and that an important part of business is still making those face-to-face connections. The expo was a sell out and will be the first of many. We have lots of pre bookings for the next one."
 
Bridget Bath from Greenacres Health at The Local View's Business Expo at the Kingsgate Centre, Peterborough
 
Article written by Paul Grinnell of Peterborough Telegraph. Thursday 26th September 2024.

 Organisers say event was first of many​.
 
Scores of businesses attended the first hard-hitting expo organised by a new enterprising group in Peterborough.
 
​The Local View hosted its first Business Expo at the Kingsgate Conference Centre in a bid to help local businesses to ‘Be Seen, Grow Their Business, Build Their Brand.
 
The event was opened by Annabel Murcott, the owner of Annabel Murcott Schools of Tae Kwon Do, who kicked things off by demonstrating her martial arts skills – breaking a plank of wood with her bare feet.
 
Annabel was the first British woman to gain an 8th Dan black belt in Tae Kwon Do and she has 10 branches of her Tae Kwon Do schools across Peterborough and Lincolnshire.
Sara Hemp, who organised the event with her business partner Julie Marsh, said the aim was to help local businesses owners network, source new suppliers, see new product demos and hear talks on industry leading topics.
 
Afterwards, organiser Sara said: “About 320 local businesses attended.
 
"It was a fantastic turnout for our first expo.
 
She said: "We’ve had some wonderful feedback. Those who attended say they made sales, generated new leads and had some fantastic conversations.”
 
The Local View provides an affordable platform for businesses to promote themselves online.
 
Sara said: “We decided to put on the expo because we recognised that not everything can be done online and that an important part of business is still making those face-to-face connections.”
 
“The expo was a sell out and will be the first of many. We have lots of pre bookings for the next one.”
 
Article written by Paul Grinnell of Peterborough Telegraph. Published 20th Sep 2024, Updated 24th Sep 2024.
 
Photo Credit: Nate Lansdell of A Smile A Day Photography.