Pictured above: Peter Pawsey, Chairman of the Rural Regeneration Zone

Working together to deliver rural regeneration in a new era will be the main topic of discussion at this year's Advantage West Midlands-backed Rural Regeneration Zone (RRZ) Annual Conference.

The high profile event, which is being held at Ludlow Racecourse on Friday 2nd July, will provide a unique opportunity to look at ways in which the Zone is helping drive forward the area's emergence from the downturn and the opportunities/challenges that will no doubt arise from a new political landscape.

A new announcement on broadband provision will headline the Conference and there will be a host of keynote speakers on hand to debate present and future issues, including Chairman of Advantage West Midlands Sir Roy McNulty, Jon Dover from Care Farming West Midlands and the possibility of a Minister from the new coalition Government.

Peter Pawsey, Chairman of the Rural Regeneration Zone, explained:

"We said in 2009 that we needed to be the catalyst for change and, despite a year of tough trading conditions and restrictions on funding, we have once again continued to drive regeneration in Herefordshire, Shropshire and parts of rural Worcester.

"Working with key partners from the public and private sectors, the Zone has been able to introduce innovative solutions to meeting long-term plans and the last twelve months has seen progress made on our key pillars of strong economy, environmental excellence, skills and increasing access to services."

He continued: "The Conference will give us a chance to reflect on 2009, but importantly help inform our future strategy as we enter another period of change with a new Government, the expected cuts in public sector spending and initial signs that we are emerging from the downturn."

The event will feature a Question and Answer session, an exhibition of support providers and an ideas wall to collect key issues and opportunities from delegates.

There will also be four video case studies played during the event, which will bring to life some of the projects funded during the year, such as a new Multi-Use Facility, a media agency winning international work and Wem Town Hall's impressive digital media training for the local community.

Peter concluded: "We are way ahead of many rural areas and, in order to stay ahead of the game, we need to listen to the people, companies and community groups we serve and this is the best chance to gain all this information in a vibrant and informative environment."

The Advantage West Midlands-funded Rural Regeneration Zone is the only one of its kind in England and covers Herefordshire, Shropshire and parts of Worcestershire.

By working with a host of strategic local partners, the Zone is delivering key projects and programmes designed to encourage enterprise, economic and social inclusion, skills and strong growth in environmental technologies.

Admission is free, but spaces are limited and interest is strong following four fully booked years. To confirm your attendance, register via advantagewm@presfact.demon.co.uk or by ringing 0845 603 7780.