THE Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce's new-look website went live this week, packed with new features to help local businesses.

The Chamber, which currently has more than 300 members, welcomed business owners for the launch event, held at the Gourmet Chinese Restaurant, in Blenheim Parade, Hillingdon, on Monday (21) evening.

The borough's Mayor, Councillor David Yarrow, and Mayoress Councillor Rita Kilroy were among the guests who were given a first look at the new site, which was developed courtesy of a grant from Hillingdon Council.

Members will be able to advertise on the website, create their own web page, and exchange views on the chat forums. Businesses can now also sign up online.

Networking events and training opportunities will be posted regularly, and affiliated Chambers from other areas in the borough – Hayes, West Drayton and Yiewsley, Ruislip Manor, Harefield and Northwood Hills - will also feature.

The Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce has been serving the interests of local businesses for more than a century, and Chairman Mike Langan said that this relaunch signalled a move into the digital age.

"We were delighted with how the event went, and we received very positive feedback from everyone who attended the launch.

"We hope it will become a vital resource for businesses in the next few years as they become more web-oriented.

"Tough times still lie ahead, and we need to be well-placed to do all we can to help.

"It is still a work in progress, and in the coming months more will be added to the site to make it even more useful for our members."

For more information, go to www.hillingdonchamber.co.uk