A group of existing and potential international traders met in central Croydon last week to discuss a forthcoming week-long trade mission to Johannesburg and Cape Town.

The mission leaves London on March 10, and a longer second mission is planned for later this year.

It follows hopes the football World Cup in South Africa will bring added business opportunities to south London.

The South African High Commission and Government organisations, as well as Deva Ponnoosami, a South Croydon businessman took part.

Mr Ponnoosami was born in South Africa and travels back and forth between there and the UK on business.

Roger Woodward, Croydon's former parking boss, also addressed the meeting, talking about his experience of creating and implementing an on-street parking plan for the city of Durban.

Bryan Treherne, chairman of South London Export Club, who is travelling with both missions, said: "Croydon received a warm welcome when it organised two trade missions to South Africa a few years ago and I expect the same kind of hospitality this time and again in the autumn.

"I would strongly encourage any business, regardless of size, to consider seriously the possibility of trading in South Africa and to join our autumn trade mission as the best possible way to make the all-important initial contacts."

For more details of the autumn mission to South Africa call Bryan Treherne on 07860 337129