Mr Cann is aiming to attend most of the three day conference as an observer and delegate and will not be speaking publicly. Still in recovery from the stroke he suffered six months ago while speaking to students, Mr Cann was greeted enthusastically by many delegates, delighted to see him attend.

It's his first public appearance at an IFP event since suffering his illness earlier in the year when he had to be rushed into hospital.

IFP interim chief executive Steve Gazzard and IFP President Rebecca Taylor both said they were delighted Mr Cann was able to make it to the conference. Ms Taylor said she hoped Mr Cann would return to the IFP in the future.

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Ms Taylor said she had missed Mr Cann's guidance at chief executive but that Mr Gazzard's support and the support of the IFP team had been invaluable.

The three day conference is taking place at the Celtic Manor Resort near Newport, South Wales, until Wednesday and features dozens of training sessions, seminars, events, keynote speeches and a large exhibition with over 50 stands.