SIR Mel Stride, the MP for Central Devon, visited Lapford Cross MOT & Car Sales in Lapford to meet owner Mike Squires and discuss the issues affecting independent garages and small businesses across rural Devon.

During the visit, Sir Mel toured the business and heard about the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. Mr Squires has run Lapford Cross for 25 years, building a trusted local business serving the community and supporting skilled employment in the area.

Sir Mel said: “It was a pleasure to visit Lapford Cross MOT & Car Sales and meet Mike Squires. Independent garages provide an essential service to motorists while supporting skilled employment and the local economy. Hearing directly from businesses about the practical challenges they face helps inform the work I do both locally and nationally.”

Mike Squires said: “I was pleased to welcome Sir Mel to the business and discuss some of the issues affecting independent garages. Like many small businesses, we are focused on continuing to serve our customers and investing for the future while navigating the wider pressures facing the sector.”

The visit formed part of Sir Mel’s continuing programme of engagement with businesses across Central Devon, ensuring that the experiences of local employers help shape discussions on policies to support enterprise, investment and economic growth.