Frank Bruno headlines 'invaluable' Ipswich business networking event attended by 200

The big picture: The networking event, held at Ufford Park on Thursday, marks another significant milestone for Longfields Circle, a business network spun out of Longfields Insurance earlier this year to facilitate better business collaboration across the region.

Details: The event follows the network's launch event earlier this year which featured a Spitfire flypast.

• Former heavyweight boxing champion Frank Bruno was interviewed by sports broadcaster Alan Brazil.

• The event partnered with Combat2Coffee as its chosen charity, with thousands of pounds were raised for the charity during the evening.

What they're saying: Luke Broadley, founder of the Longfields Circle and owner of Longfields Insurance, said: "This was another tremendous success. Business networking doesn't need to be stale or boring. The Longfields Circle is transforming how businesses in Suffolk and East Anglia connect and collaborate."

Local business owner Ross Cracknell of Evolve Business Solutions praised the approach: "Being part of the Longfields Circle has been invaluable, we've made some great connections and it's all about collaboration and doing things in a new way."

What's next: The Longfields Circle has promised more events for 2025, though details have not yet been announced.

The bottom line: The event demonstrates growing momentum for the new business network, which has now delivered two major events featuring high-profile guests since its launch.