Businesses across Moray, Badenoch and Strathspey are to be given a unique opportunity to attend an evening masterclass by former Olympic coach and now renowned motivational speaker, Frank Dick.

Building on the huge success of the first motivational masterclass held earlier this year in Aviemore, Mr Dick will present 'Coaching away the winter blues - Strategies for Success', in Elgin on 16th January.  The workshop will aim to inspire energy and enthusiasm and stimulate local business people to be more innovative, and successful, in their business practices.

The event is being organised by Moray Badenoch and Strathspey Enterprise (MBSE), part of the Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) network, as part of its ongoing commitment to providing information and skills to local business owners and managers.

Renowned as one of the best motivational speakers today, Frank Dick's presentations are highly amusing and anecdotal, challenging and inspirational, making uncomfortable listening for anyone prepared to accept second best.  He is a former Director of Coaching for the British Athletic Federation and an expert in 'Performance Management'.

Frank Dick has been coaching athletes and sports professionals since 1970 and his prodigies have included Daley Thompson and Boris Becker.  An international athlete himself, Frank has coached athletes to Olympic, World and European honours. Currently the president of the European Athletics Coaches Association, Frank has also held the posts of chairman of the British Olympic Coaches Advisory Programme and director of coaching for the British Athletics Federation.

The evening event will be held at the Eight Acres Hotel at 6.30 p.m. for a 7.00 p.m. start on January 16th, and is free and open to all businesses across Moray, Badenoch and Strathspey.

MBSE chief executive, Douglas Yule, said:  "I am very pleased that we are able to bring Frank to the Highlands and give many local businesses a free opportunity to benefit from his energy and enthusiasm that has inspired the likes of Daley Thompson in the past.  We would urge all businesses across Moray Badenoch and Strathspey to try to get along if they can, but remember to book first as numbers will be limited."

Anyone interested in attending the event should contact Lynne McNair at MBSE on 01309 696000 (Forres) or email lynne.mcnair@hient.co.uk.