THANET businesses interested in finding out how to win contracts with firms building and operating the London Array wind farm can register for a free "meet the buyer" event.

Next Wednesday, June 9, firms will have the chance to hear from London Array about the goods and services the company and some of its main contractors are likely to need.

There will also be opportunities to meet key staff on a one-to-one basis.

London Array's commercial and operations manager Matt Britton said: "There will be supply chain opportunities for local businesses on London Array.

"Although the top tier of contracts has already been awarded, our main contractors will need to buy in goods and services as will London Array itself.

"Clearly, if we can identify local companies who can meet our needs then that is good news for both us and for Kent companies.

"Businesses that come to this event will be able to find out more about the opportunities available, how to put themselves in the best position to bid for work."

More than 60 different types of suppliers have been identified, including accommodation, waste management and transport through to portside support, health and safety training and equipment, specialist manufacturing skills and supplies, divers, boat crew and welders.

The event is at St Augustine's, Westgate, from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

For further details and to register for a place email joanne.prentice@eon-uk.com or call 07738 604337.

Once complete, London Array will be the world's first 1GW offshore wind farm. Sited in the Thames Estuary, the project will supply enough power for around 750,000 homes.

London Array will be built around 20km off the Thanet coast.