More than 80 firms from the county's top building and design companies are gathering for the Kent Construction Expo.

The long-standing free conference, staged in association with Kent Business, takes place at the Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel.

Running from 9am to 5pm, it is the largest construction expo in the South East and is a chance for firms to meet new clients and show off their expertise.

Contractors, engineers, designers, surveyors can also get advice from industry experts.

The programme of speakers includes Kent County Council leader Paul Carter, construction guru Sandi Rhys Jones OBE and Paramount Park project manager Tony Sefton.

There will be demonstration areas for traditional trades and new technology.

The bi-annual Kent Design and Development Awards 2014 will also be launched.

Last year, more than 800 attendees saw more than 80 exhibitors when it was held at Chatham's Historic Dockyard.