A Government network that helps firms develop their export links has set up an online newsroom to help the press access good stories.

Trade Partners UK offers journalists the chance to search an archive of news releases including export success stories, downloadable photography, speeches, biographies and other useful information to help research and write articles.

The project is part of an ongoing programme of developments to raise awareness, through the media, of Trade Partners UK's work with British exporters.

And a detailed list of stories relevant to the local and regional press is updated regularly at the site: www.tradepartners.gov.uk.

Trade Partners UK brings together the work of teams in 200 British embassies overseas and Government departments across Whitehall.

There is a good regional slant because Trade Partners UK services are delivered through the 45 Business Links and other partners including Regional Development Agencies and chambers of commerce, co-ordinated by nine regional international trade directors.

The devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own arrangements for local delivery of services. For more information visit the web site www.tradepartners.gov.uk.

The 'newsroom' has been produced specifically for the needs of the media and supplements other information put out by the Government and Department of Trade and Industry.

Do you have a story about the regional press? Ring 0116 227 3122/3121, or
e-mail pastill@nep.co.uk