When I first started I joined a local networking group, more for the social side and meeting like-minded people than the referrals I got. Instead of shopping at Tesco's (evil place) why don't you go to your local shops and markets and as well as supporting your fellow local business folk you will meet some great people too.
IP2 I frequently phone people up in the middle of the day and get told they are at lunch - I've forgotten what a lunch break is!!
