MEMBERS of Huddersfield’s professional community were urged to do all they can to help the town’s businesses thrive.

The call came from Edward Lee, president of the Huddersfield and District Society of Chartered Accountants at the organisation’s annual dinner.

The event at the Galpharm Stadium was attended by more than 300 people, including representatives of accountancy firms in Calderdale and Wakefield, who have amalgamated with the Huddersfield society.

Mr Lee said the town had many very successful businesses, including long-established manufacturers, who would be key to securing economic recovery.

“It is very important that these businesses are allowed to expand and it is very important that they get the help they need from the various professionals – the solicitors, bankers and chartered accountants,” he said.

“Let’s do all we can to help this town thrive.”

Guest speaker at the dinner was author Prof Gervase Phinn, who recounted humorous stories from his time as a schools inspector.

A raffle raised £2,410 for Kirkwood Hospice at Dalton.