LEADERS from Hampshire’s manufacturing sector discussed how to unlock potential growth and challenges facing the sector at a breakfast event.

The “Growing Pains” event at the Ageas Bowl saw 18 local business chiefs discuss access to funding and grants, how to recruit talent, tax and energy costs.

John Williams, from Santander, also led a talk about the bank’s new Breakthrough scheme.

Also, Amanda James, associate director at Grant Thornton, talked about the issues which face the manufacturing sector.