Brainstorming and 'out of the box' thinking are on the agenda at an event to generate new business ideas in the Skerries this weekend (Saturday 20 September).

Shetland Enterprise, along with the Shetland Islands Council Economic Development Unit and the Shetland Development Trust, has issued an open invitation to all residents and businesses on the isles to take part in a Generating Business Ideas workshop in the Skerries Hall.

It is designed to stimulate fresh thinking and ideas within the Skerries community in a bid to encourage business growth, and is being organised by Development Partners.

The event, which runs from 9am to 3pm, is designed to encourage residents to appreciate what resources and skills they have, as well as teaching techniques for generating ideas, creative thinking and problem solving.

Steven Leask, development manager at Shetland Enterprise, said:  "All businesses and initiatives, no matter how big or small, start off as someone's idea.  By getting all the residents together so that they can realise their potential, we hope to be able to encourage them to focus their ideas and turn them into reality.

"The Skerries is one of our most fragile communities and we are committed to improving the local economy.  Should someone come away from the event with even the smallest idea for a new business, then we would be delighted to help them develop this further."

The workshop is free of charge and lunch is provided.