TWO major Cumbrian networking events have been heralded a success, with attendees saying the get-togethers have been extremely beneficial for increasing their business contacts.

News and Star: Many attended the first in-Cumbria networking event in KendalMany attended the first in-Cumbria networking event in Kendal (Image: Supplied)

A new in-Cumbria networking event was held in Kendal on February 16, bringing the popular networking events to the south of the county for the first time.

The event, held at Carus Green, was supported by Grasmere Gingerbread, with many new faces attending and enjoying the informal nature of the in-Cumbria events.

News and Star: The events are relaxed and informal which networkers enjoyThe events are relaxed and informal which networkers enjoy (Image: NQ staff)

The following week, on February 23, the popular event returned once again to Carlisle with networkers enjoying a 'shake up' with some new networking-inspired games on the night.

The events attract an eclectic mix of businesses, from hospitality firms to HR, leaders in the motor industry to authors.

News and Star: Grasmere Gingerbread attended the Kendal eventGrasmere Gingerbread attended the Kendal event (Image: Supplied)

READ MORE: Popular Cumbrian business networking event returns for 2023

Three local business representatives, who have attended both the Carus Green and Halston events, have said they’ve made really good connections.

Martin Norris, head of recruitment at Realise HR, based in Kingmoor Park, Carlisle, said: "The in-Cumbria networking events are some of the best in the Cumbrian calendar.

News and Star: The networking evenings allow people to develop contacts throughout CumbriaThe networking evenings allow people to develop contacts throughout Cumbria (Image: NQ staff)

"They're informal, relaxed, and genuinely good fun. I've been attending the events since their launch last year and have made some great connections"

Joel Osbourne, hotel broker at Christie & Co, said: "They are a great platform to meet other like-minded people keen to engage and understand how their business can assist and help out others, and how other businesses can help them, all being done in a social environment. 

READ MORE: in-Cumbria networking event to host first first evening in Kendal

"From an individual perspective, I’ve already met some key contacts with whom I hope to forge some longstanding business relationships, so I’d highly recommend anyone to come along."

News and Star: Newsquest Regional Editor Joy Yates at the Kendal eventNewsquest Regional Editor Joy Yates at the Kendal event (Image: Supplied)

Thomas Walsh, business development officer at Lancaster University, said: "I have really enjoyed attending in-Cumbria's networking events.

"The team work hard to make sure everyone feels welcome and it's great to meet such a diverse range of local businessowners. The games and prizes are good fun too!"

The next in-Cumbria south networking event will be held at Carus Green Golf Club on Thursday, March 16.

The next in-Cumbria networking event for the north of the county will be held at The Halston Hotel Carlisle on Thursday, March 23.

To sign up you can visit: https://www.in-cumbria.com/news/networking-events/