Event professionals across the south have launched a new not for profit forum aimed at re-emerging from the current pandemic with a more unified, collaborative and sustainable offer.

The South Coast Events Forum (SCEF) ranges from award-winning event organisers to industry-leading event suppliers.

It is led by a nine-strong steering group, chaired by Craig Mathie, Managing Director of Bournemouth 7s Festival.

The voluntary board includes:

• Nicole Richman, owner of NR Event Services.
• Suzy Wheeler who runs her own events and marketing company, Strawberry Fields RePresents, alongside her role at Absolute Music.
• Paul Ashurst, Events Director, Bournemouth 7s Festival, pictured.
• Alan Dove, Commercial Manager for the Students Union at Bournemouth University and owner of Vdub at the Pub festival,
• Simon Stewart, Director, 33rd Management and owner of the cheese and chilli festivals and co-owner of Weymouth Food Festival.
• Adam ‘Ski’ Hart, currently Manager and performer in The Jimmy Hillbillies and promotor of a monthly music night at Chaplins & The Cellar Bar.

Other members are Garry Wakefield, Director, Capital Barriers & Temporary Fencing, representing suppliers, and Gavin Barnard, Founder of industry consultants, Event Advice Agency.

Craig, who is also Vice President of the National Outdoor Events Association and Vice Chair of BCP’s Desination Management Board, said: “It is an absolute privilege to have been joined in this concept by so many excellent industry professionals.

“In these most challenging times, I have been blown away by the spirit of collaboration and positive approach of our members and the fantastic steering group who will represent them.

“We are full of admiration for everything that has been achieved by the national organisations who represent our industry to government and help to drive standards across the industry.

“Groups such as the South Coast Events Forum will help us to engage with local decision makers, to influence regional strategy and share best practice with those we work with most regularly.”

The group’s membership consists of a variety of organisations of all sizes and includes event and exhibition venues, festival promoters, contractors, agencies and freelancers.

Members will benefit from monthly networking meetings, regular communication and a conference scheduled for this autumn.

Membership of the South Coast Events Forum is free for both organisers and suppliers.

To join or for more information, visit SouthCoastEventsForum.com