Toasting the toastmaster

When Alan Peek retired at the age of 65 after 43 years in the Licensed Trade he was not ready to end his working days. South Norfolk Council awarded him a £250 grant under the Professional Services Scheme towards a Toastmasters Course and a loan under the Enterprise Loan Scheme of £500, towards a uniform and equipment, for him to carry out his new role.

Now fully trained as a Professional Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies and aptly attired, Mr Peek has started to build up his reputation and workload over the last few months and has a very busy diary.

Mr Peek says he chose to become a Toastmaster “because it was something I had always been interested in and felt I might excel at. South Norfolk Council has helped to make all this possible”

His work includes civic and ceremonial celebrations, banquets, weddings and dinners. He says, “All functions are interesting and a challenge and no two ceremonies are ever the same.”

If you wish to make a booking for a Toastmaster or Master of Ceremonies, you can contact Alan Peek on 01508 499870.

The Enterprise Loan Scheme has been re-launched as the Enterprise Development Scheme, offering interest-free loans of up to £10,000 for start-up and existing enterprises.

South Norfolk Council Economic Development Officer Tim Bacon says:

“There are no specific criteria of eligibility, but the Enterprise Development Scheme aims to support innovation and expansion in local enterprises and to assist those who may be excluded from the labour market and have difficulty accessing capital through the normal channels. It can also assist social or community enterprises that are seeking to become self- financing. “

For more information on the scheme contact: Tim Bacon on: 01508 533834

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