DRIVERS of Hampshire’s economy were coming together today for the Daily Echo-backed South Coast Business Works 2013.

The event will see 40 of the south’s leading firms and organisations converging at the Grand Harbour Hotel in Southampton.

The event is designed to provide local economic leaders with a platform to promote themselves and forge new contacts.

Visitors will also hear from some of the region’s most successful businessmen and women.

Disabled Hampshire yachtsman Geoff Holt  launched the show at 9am with his inspirational tale about being the first quadriplegic yachtsman to sail solo around Great Britain five years ago.

Keeping a workforce healthy, fit and committed is the topic of Claire Mattinson’s talk from 11am.

From 1pm employment lawyer and managing partner of exhibition sponsors Trethowans, Simon Rhodes, will present a session to help businesses and managers get the very best out of their workforce.

Simon will also be joining a Question Time Business Panel chaired by Lee Peck, of the Lee Peck Group from 2pm.