Members of the Melplash Agricultural Society recently visited the Houses of Parliament where they met with the Minister for Farming, Fisheries and Food, Mark Spencer MP, over dinner. 

The group were invited to Westminster by West Dorset MP Chris Loder to hear plans on how the government planned to support farmers.

Melplash Agricultural Society president, Michael Fooks, said: "It was a privilege to take part in this visit to Westminster. I'd particularly like to thank our MP, Chris Loder, for inviting members of the society to join him there. He gave us all a wonderful insight into the background and workings of both the House of Commons and the Lords. 

"We also had a very interesting meeting over dinner with the Minister for Farming, Fisheries and Foods, Mark Spencer MP. It was good to hear first-hand from him on how the government is planning to continue to champion British produce and support us local farmers. It is clear that there is much to do, and that we farmers must work together if we wish to influence the future direction."

Melplash Agricultural Society supports and promotes local farming and food producers. Its showcase events, the Melplash Agricultural Show, takes place annually in Bridport, this year on Thursday, August 24.  

This one-day agricultural show celebrates the best of rural life in West Dorset with farming, food and fun for all the family. For more information and tickets, visit www.melplashshow.co.uk