COMPANIES in South- East Wales can now draw upon the expertise of an environmental and health and safety specialist with the promotion of Jennet Holmes as ARENA Network's regional manager for the area.

ARENA Network is an independent organisation providing practical support for business and other bodies, primarily in Wales, on environment, quality, health, safety and training issues.

ARENA Network has a membership base of over 600 companies and assists them in reducing their environmental impact and improving their overall performance. ARENA Network helps businesses keep abreast of new legislation to ensure their legal compliance.

Jennet is already a graduate in business studies, and ARENA Network sponsored her to study for a Master's degree in environmental and health and safety management while she was an employee.

They recognised the skills developed through her studies, and Ms Holmes has now been made responsible for the South-East region, an area that has around 300 companies receiving advice from ARENA Network.

Her roles include providing advice and mentoring support for companies from Bridgend to Monmouth.

She will advise on grants available to improve environmental impact, and guide, support and advise businesses trying to gain certification through achieving recognised standards such as ISO 14001.

Ms Holmes said: "Firms have to keep one eye on their business and the other on new and ever- changing rules if they want to avoid large fines.

"We act as their eyes under these circumstances."