CONSERVATIVE Party members and supporters across Central Devon descended on the Fingle Glen Hotel in Tedburn St Mary on Friday evening (September 14) for a fundraising dinner.

Local MP Mel Stride joined the dinner after a packed day of meetings in his constituency including spending the afternoon with members of the National Farmers’ Union in Copplestone and hosting a meeting at Dartmoor National Park HQ in Bovey Tracey on boosting the rural economy.

Mel arrived in time to introduce guest speaker Sir Graham Brady MP, who served as Shadow Minister for Europe under four Conservative Party leaders and has been Chairman of the influential backbench 1922 Committee since 2010.

The event attracted more than 100 supporters and raised more than £2,000.

Association Chairman Cllr Mike Davies said: “With Brexit dominating the headlines it was very good to have such a knowledgeable and interesting speaker.

“It was great to see the event so well attended and we are really grateful to Sir Graham for giving up his time to support our association.”

Mr Stride added: “It is a very interesting time to be involved with politics – the two main events we have held this summer have been very well attended and it was certainly good to see a room full of people whose views on Brexit might vary but all came together so amicably to support the party and enjoy a good evening.”