Business, organisations and educational institutions are among the members of a group designed to help drive post-pandemic economic recovery in the Cotswolds.

The Cotswold Economic Advisory Group, established by Cotswold District Council, brings together key institutions such as Cirencester College, the Royal Agricultural University and the Fire Service College at Moreton-in-Marsh with businesses including St James's Place and Corin Medical from Cirencester and the Campden BRI food innovation centre at Chipping Campden.

Key partners such as Gfirst LEP and the Federation of Small Businesses are also involved.

The group will oversee the implementation of the green economic growth strategy which was adopted by the council in December which prioritises supporting business and growing the local economy in a sustainable way.

Councillor Tony Dale, cabinet member for economy and skills, said: "The council's administration is committed to the sustainable growth of the local economy and the adoption of the green economic growth strategy is testament to that.

"We can't deliver it on our own and that's why bringing our key partners together around the table is so important.

"I'm grateful that so many influential people and organisations have agreed to join the group and I'm sure it will have a really positive impact."

The group, which is chaired by Northleach businessman Alan Richell, met virtually for the first time last week.

Mr Richell said: "The Cotswold economy has a lot going for it and we may not have shouted about it enough in the past. This Group will help to put that right and really drive progress in this area."