THE Ayre family welcomed Central Devon MP Mel Stride to Black Dog Eggs at Cobscombe Farm recently to talk about issues facing rural businesses.

The family’s free range Lohmann Brown hens lay eggs that are enjoyed by homes, businesses and schools all over Devon.

Their hens are well looked after – their RSPCA accreditation and “Lion Quality Standard” certificate of conformity are proof of that. Mr Stride was joined by county and district councillor, Mrs Margaret Squires.

Mr Stride, who chairs the influential House of Commons Treasury Select Committee, visits between 100 and 200 local businesses in his constituency every year, to listen to concerns and where possible offer help or support.

The feedback helps to shape his work on the committee, which holds the Government, and the Chancellor in particular, to account for economic policy.

Owner Phil Ayre said: “It was great to welcome Mel to Black Dog Eggs and talk through some of the challenges we are facing as a business. These include soaring fuel, feed and electricity costs.”

Mel added: “I am on a mission to ensure the Government’s levelling up agenda includes a greater focus on our rural economy.

“Our high streets in our cities and towns are hugely important, but so too are the businesses operating out of sight in the countryside, that are part of our food security, that are a crucial cog in supply chains and are an important source of employment for smaller rural communities.”