Chamber's Big dreams; ICC: Key figures set for string of events in next year.

Byline: By Jon Griffin

THE biggest audience of business people ever assembled in Birmingham is to gather for a trio of events lined up by Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Over the next 12 months, over 4,500 key figures are expected at the Big 3, a string of major events at the ICC.

John Crabtree, the BCI's vice-president who will be installed as president in October, said: "The three events will reflect the business and ethnic diversity of Birmingham.

"This ambitious series represents the comprehensive nature of what is by far the Midlands' largest and most influential business support organisation."

The series starts on Saturday November 4, with the Bollywood-themed Institute of Asian Businesses' annual dinner. Principal speaker will be Karan Bilimoria, founder and chief executive of Cobra Beer.

BCI events manager Lisa Ibbot-son said: "This will be a celebration of Birmingham's ethnic diversity.

"The Bollywood theme will add pizzazz to an event which has always been the highlight of the city's Asian business calendar."

Meanwhile, the Chamber's most prestigious event, its annual banquet, takes place on Tuesday, January 23, when Mervyn King, governor of the Bank of England, will be the keynote speaker.

Lisa Ibbotson said: "The Chamber has a reputation for attracting key speakers to its banquet and we continue that tradition at the ICC on January 23.

"Mr King becomes part of a list of prinicipal Chamber guests which has included Tony Blair, John Major, John Prescott, Michael H12oward, Patricia Hewitt, Michael Portillo and Stephen Byers."

On March 2, more than 3,000 delegates are expected to attend the Chamber annual conference, exhibition and awards dinner.

Lisa said: "The day will run from the early hours, culminating in an awards gala dinner, including a celebrity speaker. There will be seminars and a large exhibition featuring all manner of businesses."