An inaugural lunch to help connect businesses in Diss and celebrate Christmas at the same time has been hailed as a success.

Last Friday the Diss Business Forum held a Christmas lunch at The Park Hotel.

Representatives from 20 businesses attended the lunch and they were welcomed with Christmas songs by the Diss Salvation Army band.

The guest speaker was major David Young, who served with the Salvation Army around the world, including Indonesia, Zambia, South Africa and Sweden, and told the gathering about how less fortunate people around the world celebrate Christmas.

Kerry Kirby, chairman of Diss Business Forum and director of Splice Creative, said: 'It has been brilliant to see so many of our members with their colleagues and friends at our first Christmas lunch.

'With guests from almost 20 different businesses attending and so many lovely comments we plan to make this a regular fixture in our events calendar.

'Diss Salvation Army were fantastic and I really appreciate them performing a selection of carols for our members.

'David's speech was very moving and it really gave us all the opportunity to reflect and to appreciate the work they do.

'On behalf of the committee I would also like to thank our members for their continued support throughout 2015.

'We're currently planning our events for next year which begin with the AGM at The Park Hotel on February 24.

'Everyone is welcome and we always enjoy meeting new businesses so if you are considering joining do come along, we would love to see you there.'

The Diss Business Forum has more than 100 members. To find out more about the group visit www.dbf.org.uk

Have you got a business story for the Mercury to report on? Email anthony.carroll@archant.co.uk