NEW Mid-Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston has been taken on a tour of his "patch" by local councillors to point out its potential.

The two day tour was arranged by Wychavon District Council to highlight to the recently elected MP the diversity and innovation of business in the district, and also to show the opportunity for future growth. Businesses visited included Kanes, Primafruit, Rotec, Qinetiq, Magna Interiors, DRP, Hartmetall, Schroders, and Strickland MFG, in addition to South Worcestershire College.

During the tour, Mr Huddleston also officially opened the new £2m headquarters for Strickland MFG on Vale Park in Evesham. The company is Europe’s largest supplier of parts for earth moving and demolition equipment, including excavator buckets, grapples and pulverisers.

He said: “Part of my role as an MP is to support and champion local enterprise and this tour has been extremely useful in increasing my understanding of the strength and diversity of local businesses. It was also very useful to hear about their challenges and discuss what the government can do to help. The overall message I got was that business is good and most firms were very optimistic about their future with many planning to hire more people over the coming year. The visits have given me even greater confidence in the future of the district and the county. Joining in the official opening of Strickland’s new site on Vale Park was a particular highlight.”

Ian Wooltorton, Strickland's managing director, added: "Our new facility was built with both the customer and employee in mind. Its design will allow us to work smarter and more efficiently, keeping the customer satisfied.”

Cllr Richard Morris, portfolio holder for the economy at Wychavon, said: “There really is an exciting and unique range of businesses in Wychavon and it was great to have two days to demonstrate how the district is a vibrant centre of business excellence. We work hard to create the right economic environment, to encourage investment in the area, and create lasting and sustainable employment. We hope Nigel will help to promote the district and support us in our efforts to bring new business to Wychavon.”