Norfolk businesses were urged to seize on the potential of doing business with China.

Business leaders heard how firms could tap into the current rebalancing of the Chinese economy with its greater emphasis on improving consumer prosperity during a reception hosted by Anglia Farmers with the China Britain Business Council at the Royal Norfolk Show.

Prince Michael of Kent, patron of the Norfolk-based Care for Children charity, which works to help orphaned children in China and increasingly other Asian countries, told the reception on Wednesday that he was encouraged by the links that already exist between Norfolk firms and China.

Prince Michael said: 'I am keen to encourage local businesses here in Norfolk to consider business opportunities as well as supporting this local charity. The relationship between Britain and China is growing and has much potential.

'It doesn't matter if it's charities or businesses which leads the way, they must both open doors for the other.'

Caroline Williams, chief executive of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, said she would like to see more businesses with links to China sharing their expertise with other firms.

'Norfolk is really starting to drive the economy now and as far as local businesses are concerned exporting with China is a really good opportunity.'