Dunne wins Westminster Award

Local MP Philip Dunne today was yesterday chosen by The Countryside Alliance as the winner of its prestigious Westminster Award.

The award which honours a 'rural champion' in Parliament is presented each year to the Parliamentarian judged to have worked hardest for rural issues.

Philip Dunne said:

"I am absolutely delighted to have won this award. I have sought to use my time in Parliament to be a strong voice for rural communities. I am deeply flattered to have had this work recognised by the Countryside Alliance."

Simon Hart Chief Executive of The Countryside Alliance said:

"This Award goes to someone who, in a short time in Parliament, has a heroic track-record of serving the countryside through his work at Westminster. He is a tireless champion of rural life and country sports. His support for his local hospitals saw him using all of the parliamentary tools at his disposal, including debates and questions, to raise the issue in Parliament, and as the Chairman of the Parliamentary All Party Group on Rural Services he has helped provide a valuable focal point and forum for Parliamentarians and stakeholders alike in this important area.

He will also be popular with those of you here who run a Post Office because he has been consistently vocal against Post Office closures, not only as a constituency MP but also as the Secretary of the All Party Group on Post Offices.

Being the MP for Ludlow, famous for its local produce, he is also passionate about farming and food production and a great champion of an industry which often does not get the support and recognition that it deserves.

Congratulations to Philip Dunne MP on being the recipient of the Countryside Alliance Westminster Award."

Mr Dunne added:

"I also congratulate all the regional winners from the West Midlands and in particular the Organic Smokehouse, the finalist from the Ludlow constituency, run by Michael and Debbie Leviseur."

Photo: Philip Dunne receives the Countryside Alliance Westminster Award