It was the first event of what is hoped will become a regular fixture on the business networking calendar for county women - and it proved an instant hit.

Bill's Restaurant was the venue for the what was billed as the Leading Ladies in Gloucestershire Lunch event, organised by Tayntons Solicitors.

No stranger to successful networking events, the Gloucester-headquartered law firm's Curry Club has remained a success, attracting 50-plus people roughly six times a year for the best part of a decade.

"We wanted to create another dimension, a safe, supportive space to bring together some of the most successful and most powerful women in Gloucestershire to help them realise their potential," said Rachel Tombs, Tayntons marketing and business development consultant.

An estimated 45 women took up the opportunity to attend and guest speaker was none other than Mel Nicholls, London and Rio Paralympian cyclist.

Read more: Mel smashes world record 

If you are reading this close to 1pm today (October 20), the event is still underway. More are being planned and will take place every two months - advertised on Eventbrite.

To find out more email Rachel on rachel.tombs@tayntons.co.uk.