A trade mission aimed at building links between the South West and the East has been hailed a success.

Delegates from Exeter visited the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS) in Lowestoft and Norwich Research Park to find out more about the work which takes place at the sites and trade opportunities.

The trip was organised by Exeter Connects and Norwich Connects with support from the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership.

Tim Jones, chairman of the Exeter Connects ambassador network, said: 'We predicted there would be some strong links between the research expertise in Norwich and our own food and drink sector, and that has proved to be correct.'

He added the delegates had been surprised by how many positive links there had been including in marine, digital and business services sectors.

New Anglia LEP chairman Mark Pendlington said the trip had served to bind the regions' common interests.