Paralympic athlete Danny Crates gave an emotional and inspirational speech to over 100 senior business men and women at AFC Business's first Directors' Dinner at the Seward Stadium last night.

The former Paralmypian, who won gold in the 800 meters in Athens in 2004, told the guests about what kept him motivated during his athletics career and bouncing back from setbacks, and how experiences can relate to business.

The event was well attended and guests enjoyed a five course meal with wine in one of Dorset's finest conference venues.

The evening was hosted by the chief executive of the Dorset Chamber of Commerce & Industry Peter Scott and president of the Bournemouth Chamber of Trade & Commerce Nigel Hedges.

AFC Business is a free to join business club which aims to bring local organisations together, and currently has over 650 members.

AFC Bournemouth commercial director Rob Mitchell said, "The Directors' Dinner was a real success and it was a very interesting evening.

"I would like to thank Danny for coming along and giving such an inspirational speech. He's had his struggles but been hugely successful, and I think everyone can learn from him."

The club is looking forward to hosting its next Directors' Dinner in September.

For more information about the event or AFC Business please contact Rob Mitchell on 01202 726322 or e-mail rob.mitchell@afcb.co.uk.

AFC Business is AFC Bournemouth's free to join business club and is made up of a partnership between AFC Bournemouth, Bournemouth Chamber of Trade & Commerce, Hill Osborne, Jaluch Ltd. and Macmillan Cancer Support.