Amble food producers feature in trip to Houses of Parliament
Food and drink producers from Northumberland travelled to a special promotional event in the Houses of Parliament in June.
Martin Charlton (left) with Hugh Gaffney MP (right) and one of his aides. Photo: NCC communications
Amble producers featured heavily; The Old Boat House’s owner/chef Martin Charlton travelled to the event, and there was produce and information from Northumberland Seafood Centre’s Creel Club, Pride of Northumbria, the Mad Jam Woman and Mocha Mondo.
MPs and government ministers visited the event and were able to sample the produce and find out about the fantastic local businesses and top quality produce that is being promoted under the Produced In Northumberland brand.
Martin Charlton said “We set out to promote the best Northumberland has to offer – and we certainly did that!
It was very well attended – it was amazing – we had hundreds through the doors in the Houses of Parliament.
We were blown away with the interest in both our produce and our county. And that was what it was all about – promoting and raising awareness about Northumberland.”
He praised the organisers and the MPs of all parties who came to support the event.
“All credit to the council and the producers in Northumberland team for taking the initiative,” he said.
Peter Jackson, Leader of Northumberland County Council said the MPs had been impressed by the produce on show. “I’m sure this will really spark off and demonstrate to the whole world, never mind the country, just how great the produce of Northumberland is.”
Jake Berry, Northern Powerhouse Minister said “I think it’s so important we bring the producers and businesses of Northumberland here to Parliament.”
He spoke about the importance of upcoming devolution for the North of the Tyne, and the opportunities in the Borderlands deal which will encourage co-operation between businesses on both sides of the border.
Sadly the event had to be curtailed halfway through, as Guy Opperman MP for Hexham announced that the Prime Minister needed the room, so they were all asked to leave early.
Anna Williams
