ALTHOUGH the credit crunch is putting a squeeze on corporate events budgets, Worcestershire can offer some great value opportunities to inject some muchneeded enjoyment into the working day and lift the gloom.

Emma Robinson, head of conference-worcestershire, said: “Now that company budgets are stretched to the limit, businesses who want to hold a company event, whether it is a motivation– boosting staff team-building day or a corporate event to make a client feel valued, just won’t settle for second best.

“They will be looking for that extra wow factor to make their event truly worthwhile, and luckily, Worcestershire has these opportunities in abundance.”

Conference-worcestershire, which promotes the county as the ideal business tourism destination, has an impressive member and associate member portfolio, including some of the county’s top venues, attractions and entertainment providers.

Top of the pile for companies who are seeking a thrilling outdoor experience is Top Barn Activity Centre.

Ms Robinson said: “Don’t let the centre’s picturesque and peaceful setting alongside the river Severn fool you. This place means action.”

Kayaking, quad biking, orienteering and hot air ballooning are just a few of the activities on offer to adventurous companies looking for an adrenalin-fuelled team-building event.

Golfing fans can treat their clients or colleagues to a few holes with a difference at Tewkesbury Park Hotel, Golf and Country Club.

Powerplay Golf is a nine-hole, twoflag punchier version of the old favourite, ideal for corporate entertaining.

For sports fans who prefer their rugby, Sixways Events at Warndon, just off junction six of the M5, can offer the ideal solution. Get up close to the action with a pitch-side corporate box at the 60-acre multi-purpose Sixways venue, home to the Worcester Warriors, or entertain up to 1,000 guests in style at the venue’s indoor training centre.

For the thrill of the chase, Worcester Racecourse’s trackside luxury executive boxes and corporate hospitality packages are ideal for entertaining and only a short walk from the city centre.

Companies with a creative streak can also get in touch with Worcester Porcelain Museum, which organises paint-a-plate workshops for companies and sends their experts out to events.

Entertrain UK Ltd and AN: Event Services’ new audience response technology is ideal for injecting some fun into events.

Ms Robinson said: “Worcestershire is ideal for companies looking to hold a corporate event with a difference, at more competitive prices than bigger cities than Birmingham.

“Its wide range of venues, services and facilities are ideal for injecting that extra something special, so contact conferenceworcestershire, and we will make sure that your corporate event is one to remember.”

For more infomation about conference-worcestershire and its free venue-finding service, telephone 01905 766895.

Alternatively, visit its website at conferenceworcestershire.org.