BUSINESSES are being urged to become more innovative to increase overseas trade.

Cumbria Export Club is dedicating its next meeting to looking at how firms could boost exports by developing more imaginative ideas.

Mike Bland, Business Link for Cumbria's advisor for innovation and technology, will be the guest speaker at the meeting on April 10.

"Innovation is the key to success for many of our small and medium-sized businesses whether they are selling in this country or overseas," "Good innovative ideas come in many forms. The important thing is to recognise them when they come along." he said. Mr Bland will explain the support available to firms seeking new or better products and processes.

Also speaking will be David Hymers, managing director of Total Postweigh International Ltd of Alston, who has received innovation support from Business Link and the DTI's SMART scheme.

Cumbria Export Club secretary Ian Readman said the meeting should be useful to business people either doing or considering trading abroad.

"In an ever-competitive environment, most exporters need to keep improving and developing their output in order to stay ahead of their competitors both in the UK and overseas.

"Such innovation is vital to their success. It is what's needed for any business which wants to get ahead of their competitors, not just at home but overseas too."

The meeting is being held at the Rural Enterprise Centre, Redhills. It starts with a buffet and the annual meeting at 5.30pm.