The director general of the National Crime Agency has been invited by Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Tim Passmore, to address business leaders in the county next month.

Keith Bristow will speak at a lunch event being held on March 6 in conjunction with the Haverhill and Newmarket & District chambers of commerce.

He will talk about the work of the National Crime Agency is doing on behalf of businesses to cut serious and organised crime.

Also speaking at the event will be Mr Passmore and Deputy Chief Constable Gareth Wilson, who will give an update on local policing issues that may impact on the business community.

Mr Passmore said: “I am absolutely delighted that Keith has agreed to come to Suffolk to talk about the important and fascinating work of the National Crime Agency. I will be particularly interested to hear how the work of the agency fights crime that impacts on business.

“Supporting the local economy is key to my ambition to make Suffolk a safer place and it is a significant element of my Police and Crime Plan.

“It is well documented that if the economy suffers, you get more crime and where there is a problem with crime, it is more difficult to attract inward investment and new businesses; it’s a vicious circle and one that I certainly do not want Suffolk to become a part of.

“A strong economy boosts employment and helps to cut crime. I believes local businesses all have a part to play in helping to create a thriving community and make Suffolk a safer place in which to live, work, travel and invest. I hope local businesses will book a place at the event, I am sure we will all learn a great deal.”

The event is to be held at The Athenaeum, Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds from 11.45am until 2pm. To book a place, visit www.suffolkchamber.co.uk.