A new business networking forum has swung into action in Hartlepool.

The inaugural meeting of FORE Business took place at Hartlepool Golf Club and was hailed a big success – despite a nearby bomb scare.

Around 20 local business owners and professionals got together on the golf course to talk business and enjoy a game on the links.

Organisers have hailed it as a “game changer” and a new chapter for business networking in the North East.

The first meeting of FORE Business's new group at Hartlepool Golf Club was hailed a big success.

placeholder image — The first meeting of FORE Business's new group at Hartlepool Golf Club was hailed a big success.

FORE Business hosts similar events across the UK, including Newcastle and Darlington, and has over 1,700 members here and internationally.

Co-founder Sean Fergusson said: “We’ve been wanting to launch a group in Hartlepool for a number of years.

"The first meeting was a great success. It is all about driving business within the community but on the golf course.

"We have seen life-changing opportunities created from the events that are hosted throughout the country.”

Members travelled from across the country to support the new Hartlepool group, including long-standing members Paul Sykes, Ambassador for the Newcastle group, and Michael Stewart representing Leeds.

The group successfully completed all 18 holes despite police combing the area to check for any unexploded bombs following the discovery of dozens of incendiaries left over from the Second World War on Crimdon Beach.

FORE Business co-founder Arron Busst said: “To be surrounded by such beautiful landscape and scenery at Hartlepool Golf Club was a real privilege.

"But more than that, it was fantastic to meet so many talented and ambitious business owners from the local area.

"This is exactly what FORE Business is all about; bringing great people together in inspiring environments.”

FORE Business leaders say by joining members benefit from direct access to a thriving local network of like-minded professionals across the UK, Spain, and the United Arab Emirates and allows business owners to expand beyond traditional networking circles all through a shared love of golf.

Sean added: “It’s an incredibly powerful tool for businesses and something we are really proud of.”

Events will be held monthly at Hartlepool Golf Club with the next to take place on May 21.

Business owners can learn more about the group at www.fore-business.com