AN IT specialist had the chance to visit Downing Street as part of Small Business Saturday.

Bill Quinn, who runs FlexableIT in Portishead, was chosen to attend an event hosted by the Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osbourne.

Fewer than 100 small firms from across the UK were selected to take part and highlight their work.

Small Business Saturday saw events, promotions and activities put on by companies across the country to raise their profile and remind customers of the value of using smaller, local businesses.

Bill, who set up his company two-and-a-half years ago, said: “The MPs talked about what they are doing for small businesses as well as apprenticeships.

“Small Business Saturday makes people think about small businesses but also the whole notion of shopping locally and supporting local businesses.”

Campaign director of Small Business Saturday Michelle Ovens said: “Small Business Saturday demonstrates the level of diversity, innovation and talent that is active within our small business sector.

“It’s about getting out and supporting your friends, your neighbours and your family members and reinforcing your local community and economy.”