Caroline Spelman, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, together with local MP Mark Garnier visited Bewdley based Wyre Community Land Trust and Bewdley Development Trust.
During her visit to the Wyre Community Land Trust the Minister was able to see how the historic orchards are being restored as well as sample some pure Wyre Forest apple juice.
Both Caroline and Mark then visited Bewdley where they met with directors of Bewdley Development Trust (BDT). Here they heard how the Trust has attracted over £1 million of investment into the town. During a walk-about in Bewdley, she saw the town's flood defenses and heard about its plans for a new health centre, library and St. George's Hall community venue.
Mark said "I welcome Caroline Spelman's continued interest in Wyre Forest and am extremely pleased that she was able to visit. We have some excellent projects taking place locally, such as the Bewdley Development Trust and the Wyre Community Land Trust. It is fantastic that a member of the cabinet has seen the work of these Trusts, firsthand."
Peter Miller, BDT's managing director added "It was good to have the opportunity to chat to both a Government Minister and our local MP and say how we can make a real difference by bringing together organizations and have the tenacity to see through long term projects. By having a board of voluntary directors who has both the business skills and commitment to the future of our town, Bewdley Development Trust continues to work to make Bewdley a great place to live, work and visit."
John Iles, managing director of Wyre Community Land Trust said, "She was most impressed by the work that we are doing with farmers and volunteers to restore the unique landscape of Wyre, help protect rare species and re-establish our orchards, meadows and oak forest. She also was highly complimentary of our pure apple juice and took some bottles with her to share with fellow MPs. The apples were grown in the Wyre Forest and pressed and bottled at Blackstone Farm by Peter Styles."
Caroline Spellman was presented with a case of apple juice which she said she was going to try and take to the next cabinet meeting.