Pictures: Launch of NEST@Mallard in Bridgwater

A networking event was held to launch NEST@Mallard - a new set of offices spaces in Bridgwater.

The Mayor of Bridgwater, Cllr Leigh Redman, cut the ribbon to open the offices and mark the occasion.

"I am lucky enough to have lived in Bridgwater all my life, to talk about Bridgwater and the wonderful things that are happening here," he said.

"To be here today and see this facility is really exciting. The number of developments and industries in the area is growing. Bridgwater is thriving.

"The pandemic has significantly influenced how we do business. With people working from home, a need has developed. A need that the NEST@Mallard will help with.

"The opportunity to have access to smart and flexible office space is in demand, and I have great pleasure in opening this facility. I can't wait to see the next generation of entrepreneurs grow here."

The Mayor of Taunton, Cllr Sue Lees, also attended the event, as well as CEO of TCN UK, Richard Peacrse, who oversaw the refurbishment of the office space.

The event included office tours, bubbles, jokes, table football matches and before-and-after presentations of the regeneration project.

There were also messages of support from the NHS, Refresco and Toolstation - neighbouring businesses on Express Park who are advocates of the meeting room spaces at NEST@Mallard.

The newly formed workspaces have been refurbished over lockdown, with lounges table football, swing chairs and bar areas.