WESSEX Association of Chambers of Commerce has welcomed its 15th chamber into its fold.

Following meetings with the chairman and committee of Mere & District Chamber of Commerce, it was decided at its annual meeting that it would affiliate with the Wessex Association.

Michael Williams, chief executive of the Association, said: "We are delighted to welcome Mere and while small in numbers, they become part of an organisation that will provide support and services they have not previously been able to access.

"The Association now has a membership approaching 1,500 businesses, from small firms to large organisations.

"Our affiliation with Mere further adds to our strength as a lead business organisation in the region."

Formerly, the West Wilts Association of Chambers of Commerce formed to support the five chambers of commerce in west Wiltshire. The Wessex Association was formed in 1994 to include chambers from Devizes and Frome.

Barbara Hewitt, chairman of Mere & District Chamber of Commerce, said: "We are thrilled to be part of the Wessex Association for all that it can offer members and businesses in our area.

"Our thanks go to Michael Williams and Stefan Barbaruk for their support."

Stonar School, near Melksham is the latest school to join the association bringing its educational members to 20.

The latest patron to join is Parkridge Developments, the London-based property company behind the former Wincanton and Peter Black development schemes.