YOUR business can benefit from Canterbury's bid to become the 2008 European Capital of Culture - that's the message from the Kent Maritime Chamber of Commerce.

The chamber is holding a lunch on March 22, nine days before the bid is submitted to central government, providing an opportunity for networking and sharing ideas on the subject. Colin Carmichael, chief executive of Canterbury City Council, will explain the positive benefits to Canterbury and east Kent, should the bid be successful.

Anne Peeks, chief executive of Kent Maritime Chamber of Commerce said: "The Kent Maritime chamber is giving the council its full support in this bid and looks forward to holding a celebratory event in 2008, if the bid is successful. Until then, we wait to hear the latest news on March 22."

The three-course lunch will be at Broome Park Golf Club, Barham. To attend, or for more information e-mail canterbury@kmcoc.org.uk or call the Canterbury branch of Kent Maritime Chamber of Commerce on 01227 763033.