Ian

This is great cider country. Somerset boasts some of the best in Britain. Hitherto small producers have been exempt from one of the taxes - but now, thanks to the European Union, they could be hit hard. This week a hefty petition was handed … [Read more...] about Save our Cider

I have just been elected joint Chair of the All-Party Group that specialises in gardening and horticulture. It is a an important subject within the constituency for individual residents, professional growers and educationalists alike. I am … [Read more...] about Digging for victory

The views may be to die for, but the living is far from easy if you rely upon farm income on the uplands and hills. It is, in short, a hard life. The people who do it also love what they do and are following a proud tradition. Many families … [Read more...] about Exmoor’s Hill Farmers

This has been my first full week back at Westminster since the General election - and already a busy one. With a Conservative Government and an array of new ministers I see it as an important part of my job to put the case for local issues … [Read more...] about My Westminster week

If your phone rings and the caller claims to be from the local council (or the county council or the NHS) you have every right to be a cautious. Politely ask for their name and telephone number. Unfortunately not everyone is honest. … [Read more...] about Bogus callers