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

Boxing legend Frank Bruno and broadcaster Alan Brazil were the star guests at a major business networking event in Suffolk that attracted 200 local business owners.

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.

Frank Bruno and Alan Brazil
Becky PayneLongfields Circle
Boxing legend Frank Bruno and broadcaster Alan Brazil were the star guests at Ufford Park

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.

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Farida Rouane of Upside Finance

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Attwells Solicitors , Upside Finance and Ipswich Sports Club

Farida Rouane of Upside Finance

Improve your financial wellbeing

Based in Ipswich, Upside Finance provides expert mortgage, insurance and pensions advice, with a focus on making financial services accessible and straightforward.
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Attwells Solicitors , Upside Finance and Ipswich Sports Club

Farida Rouane of Upside Finance

Improve your financial wellbeing

Based in Ipswich, Upside Finance provides expert mortgage, insurance and pensions advice, with a focus on making financial services accessible and straightforward.
Mark Petchey giving a coaching masterclass at Ipswich Sports Club

Ipswich Sports Club

Ipswich Sports Club is one of Suffolk’s leading independent, competitive racket sports and hockey clubs, with a rich history spanning over a century.
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