FORMER Olympic swimmer Mark Foster will host the first ever Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce business awards.

The awards, taking place on Wednesday at the Hilton Hotel, Reading, will recognise the talents, innovation and entrepreneurship of companies from across the region.

Organisations including headline sponsor Heathrow Airport are supporting the inaugural awards, which will showcase the best of the Thames Valley.

Mr Foster’s career spanned 23 years and he is one of Britain’s most successful swimmers

Gavin Spencer, head of member services at the Chamber, said: “Having Mark host the night is fantastic news. The shortlist has been announced and excitement is growing.”