TENBURY MP Harriett Baldwin has quizzed a Government Minister about plans to support the local growers supplying crops for beer, cider and perry.

Mrs Baldwin joined a group of MPs calling for dedicated support measures for hop growers who have been affected by the reduced demand for beer across the UK as a result of the national lockdown.

And the MP took part in a meeting with DEFRA Minister Victoria Prentis to discuss the challenges faced by growers producing crops for the brewing industry, and the extra challenges also faced by local apple farmers.

Mrs Baldwin has discussed the challenges with local hops growers and visited Commonwood Farm, near Tenbury, to meet with local farmers and the National Cider Makers Association.

“I have talked to a range of local growers over recent weeks to get briefings on the challenges they face as the country starts to unlock the economy and return to hospitality venues to eat, drink and be merry,” she said.

“However, the picture is challenging for local farmers and reduced demand has caused a serious knock on effect for this year’s orders of hops, apples and pears for the brewing industry.