Marketing Ashfield as a desirable place to be for business, visitors and residents was the theme of the launch of a new project.

The Ashfield Story celebrates what is best about the area.

With funding and support from Ashfield District Council, a steering group of business and community leaders oversaw the compilation of the Ashfield Story through focus groups, workshops and interviews.

It looked at what makes the area distinctive, how its attributes should be celebrated and what should be emphasised to make it more attractive.

Keynote speakers at a launch event at West Nottinghamshire College included Robert Orgill, of Rolls-Royce, and Martin Rigley, of Lindhurst Engineering.

Martin Rigley said: “As an Ashfield resident and CEO of an Ashfield-based business, I have known for a long time that this is a great place to live and work.

“Telling the Ashfield Story is a great opportunity for local businesses and communities to come together to promote the area.

“I am sure this will be the catalyst that enables us all to grow and prosper; I am really looking forward to getting involved.”

Coun Don Davis, deputy leader of Ashfield District Council and portfolio holder for place and economic growth, said: “The stakeholders and partners share our aspiration to see our efforts unified so we can maximise our collective impact in helping Ashfield prosper.

“It has been an insightful journey and in particular we have been struck by the level of passion and ambition for our area.

“The news that Rolls-Royce has recently secured jobs across the East Midlands, including locally in Hucknall and Annesley, is another vote of confidence for the area and its potential for continued economic growth.”

Following the launch event a business-led Place Leadership Board is being formed and those attending the launch event and any other interested parties will form a wider network of groups and businesses committed to helping Ashfield prosper and promoting the Ashfield Story.

The story focuses on two themes – city, green and local liveability, and space, growth, value.