BUSINESS people had the chance to discuss the state of the economy with an expert on Friday.

Kate Barker, of the Bank of England's monetary policy committee, was in west Wiltshire to examine the local economy.

She visited Apetito and Virgin Mobile in Trowbridge and Avon Rubber in Melksham.

Ms Barker said: "We get a similar message from everybody: business is hard.

"We expect the economy to pick up. If these companies have survived these difficulties it suggests in a few years things will be better for them."

Ms Barker met members of the Wessex Association of Chambers of Commerce. Mike Williams, chief executive, said: "It gives businesses an opportunity to express opinions to someone who deals first-hand in the economy of the country."