Pictured above: John Cawdell

Lincoln Business Club, which promotes economic growth and prosperity through networking, is welcoming the results of a study published last week which show that the city's economy is thriving despite the recession.

The study by Royal Mail named Lincoln as the UK's number one hotspot for business growth, with more than 100 new firms starting up in the city in the past six months.

Their study found there had been a 2% increase in the number of companies trading in the city in recent months, taking the total to 8,000.

Acting Chairman of Lincoln Business Club John Cawdell said: "Trading conditions are still difficult for many businesses but Lincoln Business Club is delighted that so many new ventures have started in the city in recent months.

"Not only is competition healthy but new businesses will trade with existing firms. These new business people will need to promote their trades and professions and hopefully will soon join the 600 plus members of the Lincoln Business Club if they have not already done so."

For a start-up or small business, networking can provide a lifeline of support and business generation.

Lincoln Business Club hosts monthly networking meetings to help local business people forge new or build on existing relationships and do business with each other.

Membership is free and the club is always looking for new members.

John added: "Networking is a great way of growing your business and increasing your bottom line. We want people to help keep Lincoln at the top of the business growth table by taking advantage of the abundance of networking opportunities available."