A networking event is being organised to encourage small businesses to strike gold in the 2012 London Olympics.

The free event, organised by Norfolk County Council, will highlight business opportunities presented by the 2012 Olympics and, with the Games now just 18 months away, showcase the county's involvement in the preparations for 2012.

Tony Tomkinson, chairman of Norfolk County Council, is inviting businesses from across Norfolk, including those in the tourism sector to an early evening reception at Hethel Engineering Centre on Wednesday, March 9.

Mr Tomkinson said: 'The 2012 Olympics will bring a welcome boost for the country's economy and we want to play our part and make sure Norfolk businesses are well placed to benefit.

'I urge as many people as possible from the county's business community to join us to find out about contracts to supply goods and services during the Games, and also how the tourism sector can cash in on the boom that the Games will bring.'

In addition to offering Norfolk businesses the chance to network and explore business opportunities brought by the 2012 Olympics, the reception will consider the 2010 Tour of Britain and how it boosted the economy.

Guest speakers include Claire Gulliver, the Norfolk development officer for the 2012 Games, Fiona Roberts, the county council's Tour of Britain project manager, Richard Ellis, chair of the East of England Development Agency (Eeda), and David Coulson, senior executive for 2012 Games business support at Eeda.

Organisations and businesses set to have stands at the event include Tour of Britain, Eeda, Visit Norfolk, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, Business Link East and Active Norfolk.

Any Norfolk business interested in attending should call Catherine Wilkinson, chairman's officer, on 01603 223230, email catherine.wilkinson@norfolk.gov.uk or write to her at County Hall, Martineau Lane, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 2DH.