LUDLOW MP Philip Dunne is leading a drive to bring free government support to more local firms, to help them take advantage of export opportunities and to tap into demand for British products from overseas.

By organising a series of events through 2021, Mr Dunne is helping businesses in his south Shropshire to find out how they can start or grow international sales.

Mr Dunne is working with the Department for International Trade as part of the Parliamentary Export Programme, to help local businesses access the support they need to boost their exporting potential. The first virtual event takes place on Friday, March 19, from 2pm-3pm.

“I am well aware of the impact this pandemic has had on local businesses in south Shropshire,” said Mr Dunne.

“So helping them survive and then recover from the pandemic is one of my top priorities. I’m pleased to be hosting events that can sustain and create local jobs, by giving businesses in south Shropshire access to information, advice and finance to find new markets.

“The events I’m organising are free and all a business has to do is register at https://www.events.great.gov.uk/parliamentary-export-programme. Experts and experience will be online to provide free advice including on government supported working capital and the practicalities of post-Brexit trade.”

Whether a business is new to exporting, has exported in the past or is a current exporter, participating in the programme will equip them with the support and tools they need.

Mr Dunne is a founding member of the Parliamentary Export Programme, where selected cross-party MPs organise and chair virtual meetings with experts from business and government.

A number of businesses across Ludlow and south Shropshire have been successfully selling all over the world, including Orchard Valley Foods, who manufacture baking ingredients and won a Queen’s Award for exporting