A limited number of places are  available for businesses, budding entrepreneurs (and journalists) to join a handpicked audience at a unique Business Question Time.

The event, taking place on Thursday 23 October 2008, at the Reebok, Bolton, is organised by Chambers of Commerce North West and promises an honest and lively discussion a range of issues affecting our business community

The panel members will all be prominent figures from the world of business, renowned for expressing their hard hitting and frank opinions on a whole range of issues affecting business in our region. Whatever your political opinion or whatever type of business you own or manage we’re sure that you’ll find the event stimulating and entertaining.

This free event will start at 6.30pm and finish at 8.30pm with a buffet supper. We hope that you will be able to join us at the event and look forward to meeting you on the day.

A coach will depart Liverpool at 5pm.

Book your place online at the Liverpool Chamber website.

For more information, contact Liverpool Chamber’s Head of Policy, Maresa Molloy.

Due to high demand, Mersey Ferries are putting on an extra VIP cruise on Monday 21st July to give passengers unparalleled views of the Tall Ships’ Parade of Sail.

The previously unadvertised extra cruise will mean that all three ferries will be on the River Mersey for the Parade of Sail, the highlight of the global maritime spectacular.

Passengers on the six-hour cruise will be given the chance to listen to live onboard commentary about the rich and varied histories of the visiting ships.

Councillor Mark Dowd, Chair of Merseytravel, which owns and operates the Mersey Ferries, said: “Every one of these visiting ships has a fascinating story to tell, much like our very own Mersey Ferries. It will be a great day.”

The ferry will sail towards the mouth of the River Mersey and position itself in one of the designated vessel viewing areas. There it will remain anchored and provide a viewing platform.

Mersey Ferries flagship vessel, The Royal Daffodil, will host the cruise and a bar will be available on board. Numbers are limited to 250.

The leisurely six-hour cruise departs from Woodside Ferry Terminal, Birkenhead only - it will leave at 11.15am.

Tickets are priced at £35 and include a welcome drink, Blue Badge Guide commentary and jazz band.

Tickets must be booked in advance on 0151 330 1444 or are available online at www.merseyferries.co.uk