Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce has been toasting the success of its latest trade mission to China.

Twenty-five companies were represented on the mission which visited Beijing and Qingdao in Shandong province, with early indications showing positive monetary results.

Coventry and the West Midlands have a special relationship with Shandong province, built on the sister-city relation-ship with Jinan, Shandong's capital.

The trip was organised to coincide with British Week in Qingdao. As well as a business-to-business conference organised by the chamber other events included a seminar promoting investment into the UK and a drinks networking reception aboard the Royal Navy destroyer, HMS Exeter.

Chamber vice-president Andrew Hall said: "The strength of the Chinese economy means this is an excellent time to be getting involved over there - there have never been more opportunities available to local firms.

"Shandong has a population of 91 million people and geographically is as big as Europe with an extremely diverse range of industries.

"We at the chamber really lead the way in terms of trading with China so there are serious benefits to be had for our members."

"Without the contacts we have built up over the last ten years it would take a long time to make sure you're dealing with the right people and in the right manner."