The Richard Spooner Column: Special relationship frying tonight in Philly�

Great to see that relationships with our cousins across the pond are as strong as ever in these troubled times.

The visit to our parish by the US Embassy in London - extensively reported across all Chamber media channels - was a huge success.

Greater Birmingham Transatlantic Chamber of Commerce arranged an exclusive event with embassy personnel, headed by Ambassador Philip T.Reeker, the Charg� d'Affaires of the United States in the UK.

He told delegates at HSBC UK 's Birmingham headquarters that UK and US businesses are well-placed to take advantage of a workforce revolution that can bring the two countries ' economies “even closer ”.

And to prove the point, a delegation from the embassy - including minister counselor for commercial affairs Rosemary Gallant, international business advisor Kristina Schaferova - were given tours of two Chamber members who have trade links with the United States.

First up was a visit to the European headquarters of Hydraforce Hydraulics, a manufacturer of hydraulic valves that has six centres across the world, including three in North America.

The delegation also visited Chamber patron Flexeserve, the award-winning manufacturer of heated foot-to-go units and hot-holding displays.

As well as touring Flexeserve 's headquarters in Leicestershire, they heard about the firm 's existing and future ventures in the US market.

The delegation also visited the site in Birmingham where there are plans to create a world-class “media neighbourhood ” that will bring the biggest names in American TV and film to the city.

Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight gave the delegation a tour of an 18-acre site in Digbeth which is set to be converted into a major production hub, alongside a boutique hotel, residential, shopping and dining areas.

High on Mr Knight 's wishlist to help attract the best of Hollywood to Birmingham is a return of direct US flights to the city. He said the introduction of a route from Los Angeles would transform Birmingham into a top TV and film destination.

Which brings me to an invitation I received from the British American Business Council - which is now called the Transatlantic Chamber of Commerce in Greater Birmingham - to an upcoming event in the US.

The 11th annual British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia signature New Jersey networking event and dinner will take place on Thursday, April 28 in Haddonfield.

And it 's warming to know the venue is The British Chip Shop, where for $75 apiece ($95 for non-members) you can enjoy “traditional British pub food and specialty beer along with valuable networking opportunities and excellent giveaways ”.

Good to know the special relationship is alive and kicking. Mushy peas and salt and vinegar with my cod and chips, please�

JL/DH