I HAD the pleasure of visiting two of our wonderful local businesses - Tors Vodka in Okehampton, and Sandford Orchards near Crediton.

Tors Vodka is a true gem, founded by two friends, Edward Baily and Jonathan Bright, who grew up together in Devon.

Made with locally sourced soft winter wheat and fresh Dartmoor spring water, Edward and Jonathan’s vodka has been awarded Gold in the Taste of the West Awards three years in a row.

But despite their success, this ambitious business has found it increasingly difficult to grow in size because of tax rises and higher costs.

As an entrepreneur who has built businesses from scratch, I understand the challenges that small businesses face, and it’s a reality shared by many across the region.

Renowned cider maker, Sandford Orchards, is another jewel in Devon’s crown.

Chief cider maker, Barney Butterfield supplies bars right across the country. He spoke to me about his concerns for the future of our pubs and outlined the effect any downturn in business would have on both his company and local community.

The UK’s beer and pub sector, including cider producers like Sandford Orchards, supports over one million jobs and contributes £34.3 billion to the economy.

However, it’s also one of the most highly taxed sectors, with 40 per cent of brewers’ turnover going to taxes.

While the government’s recent decision to raise employer National Insurance contributions and business rates has only added to the burden.

In fact, it’s estimated that the combined impact of these changes could cost pubs and breweries an additional £650 million in business expenses.

For small producers this could be a serious blow to their financial stability.

Small businesses simply cannot absorb the costs of higher taxes without facing serious consequences.

I’ve long been an advocate for preserving these vital community hubs, and I’m concerned that the upcoming national insurance rise will push more local pubs and local businesses to the brink of closure.

As part of my ongoing efforts to protect local businesses, I’m supporting the Conservative’s “Save the Local” campaign - launched following the Labour government’s decision to increase business rates, raise employer National Insurance and ban smoking in pub gardens.

Pubs and small businesses like Tors Vodka and Sandford Orchards are vital to the economy of Central Devon.

They provide employment and keep our communities thriving. However, they are under threat from policies that do not take into account the unique challenges faced by small producers and rural businesses. The government must act to protect these essential businesses.

In my role as Shadow Chancellor, I will continue to fight for policies that will allow our local businesses and pubs to thrive.

We must support successful businesses like Tors Vodka and Sandford Orchards, and ensure they are able to grow and succeed.

Mel Stride

MP for Central Devon