Calne companies are going quackers for a new business fair that will run on the same day as the town’s annual duck race on May 17.

Every year thousands of people come to watch the duck race, organised by the Calne Lions Club, and the fair aims to make the most of this increased footfall.

It is the idea of Andrew Tottman of Chilvester Independent Financial Advisers and Jessica Pillow of Pillow May Accountants.

They plan to host a business fair aimed at small companies in the Calne area and it could become an annual event.

The pair are being supported by Rhianna Cole from Goughs, Judy Edwards from Calne Town Council, and Graham Craig, founder of marketing company CleverTinman.

Local businesses signing up to take part include Top to Toe Fitness, Hive Originals, 1st Choice Stairlifts, web design company Ecopow, and writer and artist Ann Carton.

Mr Tottman said: “By working in partnership with the Calne Lions we are able to stage an event where local people can meet local businesses.

“We are really pleased with the diverse range of businesses that have applied to have a stall. It is shaping up to be an interesting opportunity for businesses to increase public awareness.

“We have received great support from the Calne Chamber of Commerce who were happy to sponsor the event.”

The business fair will be held in the town hall from 11am to 2pm.

Businesses can download an application form to take part at www.calne.gov.uk

Pictured: Lions club members Ken Stephenson and Sheila Theaker, Jessica Pillow, Roarie The Lion, kneeling Graham Craig of Clever Tin Man, Lions member Graham Jamieson and president Amanda Venton, Rihanna Cole of Goughs and Judy Edwards of Calne Town Council             (VS266)