AS our MP I am constantly reminded of the incredible innovation and entrepreneurial spirit that thrives across our beautiful constituency.

Recently, I had the great pleasure of visiting Gotland Gin in Hatherleigh, a wonderful local business run by Dawn and Mark.

It was truly an inspiring visit, showcasing exactly why our small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities.

Dawn and Mark have poured their passion into creating a unique spirit, one that is beautifully inspired by their Gotland sheep and the distinct Scandinavian botanicals they use.

Their dedication to crafting a Devon-made gin with such a fascinating story behind it is something truly special.

The experience at their smallholding setting is equally delightful, with a friendly bar and the charming addition of cream-tea offerings, making for a wonderfully personal and memorable visit. And for those curious, you might even get to meet the very sheep that provided the inspiration!

Hatherleigh, like so many towns and villages in Central Devon, benefits greatly from businesses like Gotland Gin.

These enterprises are more than just places of commerce; they are drivers of economic growth, catalysts for supporting local services, and they contribute significantly to the economic and social fabric of our communities.

My own background as an entrepreneur, having started small businesses both here in the UK and in the United States, has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the hard work and vision it takes to succeed.

This personal experience fuels my commitment to championing small businesses, as I firmly believe they are the backbone of thriving communities and economies, creating jobs and providing essential goods and services.

Throughout my time as your MP, I have consistently provided support to hundreds of local businesses.

As a Treasury Minister I was instrumental in reducing business rates by a third for the majority of small high street traders.

This was a direct measure to support the very businesses that enhance the quality of all our lives.

Nationally, Conservatives in government also took action directly benefiting gin makers.

We reformed outdated licensing laws to encourage growth in micro-distilleries, expanded export support that has helped British gin become a global success story, and froze duty on spirits in several Budgets – giving distillers the stability to expand, invest, and hire more people.

These measures were about recognising innovation and ensuring sectors like craft distilling could truly flourish.

Gotland Gin is a shining example of the creativity and dedication that makes Central Devon such a fantastic place to live and work.

I would wholeheartedly encourage anyone looking for a unique Devon-made gin with a genuine story behind it to pay Dawn and Mark a visit.

Let’s all continue to support our local businesses; they are not just an investment in individual entrepreneurs, but in the collective well-being of our neighbourhoods.

Mel Stride

The MP for Central Devon