ONE of the world’s top expedition scientists told an audience of 150 business people about his experience of exploring with Sir Ranulph Fiennes.

The president’s lunch of Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) also heard pledges that the chamber would help keep members informed ahead of the referendum on EU membership.

Guest speaker was Mike Stroud, who crossed the Antarctic in temperatures as low as minus 100 Celsius with Sir Ranulph in 1992-93.

He said: "When you have an idea and think 'I can't do that', do try a quick word substitution and try 'Can't I do that?'

“Give it a go and quite often you might succeed better than you might think."

The keynote speech at the Highcliff Marriott Hotel in Bournemouth was from DCCI president David McNair, who said of the impending EU referendum: "This is an extremely important issue for businesses and DCCI will be working hard to ensure our members have the information they need to make an informed decision through a series of events and business polls.

"With regard to the economy, there is no doubt we still face challenging times and DCCI will continue on its mission to help provide Dorset businesses with an environment in which they can grow and flourish."

Mr McNair, hospital director at Nuffield Health Bournemouth, mentioned Dorset’s older population, which is expected to rise to more than 800,000 by 2023.

The meeting also saw the annual Warde Apprenticeship Award go to Jack Bull, an "outstanding" higher level apprentice in financial services with JPMorgan Chase in Bournemouth.

He was among a record 49 entrants from 34 employers in 21 different sectors, from engineering to digital.

Award sponsor Geoff Warde, a former DCCI president, was on the judging panel with Ian Girling, DCCI chief executive, and Rod Davis, chief executive of the Dorset and Somerset Training Provider Network.

Three apprentices were highly commended – Charlotte McGlaugin, an advanced apprentice with childcare Sunny Day Nurseries; James Miller, an intermediate apprentice with Inspire Professional Services; and Tyrone Rutherford, an advanced apprentice with Cobham plc.

The lunch also raised £1,036 in a silent auction for DCCI's nominated charity, LV= Steeetwise.

Vincent Boni, senior DCCI vice president and managing director of Newsquest Dorset, paid tribute to Michael Hanlon, the pioneer behind the Jurassica Project, who died suddenly aged 51.

Mr Boni said: "Despite his passing, that legacy will continue. Our thoughts are with his family at this time."