Rural firms 'key' to credit crunch battle

Shropshire's rural businesses are key to the county's battle against the credit crunch, the new president of the West Mid Show said.

Viscount Newport said the show's success, despite Saturday's rain and Sunday's gale-force winds, underlined the importance of the rural economy.

He said: "A huge part of the economy in Shropshire is centred on rural businesses and I think people are beginning to recognise what a crucial part agriculture plays in all this, particularly when you look at rising food prices.

"The key to everything is sustainability and we must have sustainability across the board if we are to survive.

"But there are positive signs out there. The future lies in more locally based food production; farm shops and local food hubs like the one taking shape at Weston Park. People care where their food comes from now more than ever.

"Of course it's not just about food; we need to be more self-sufficient across the board, even when it comes to energy. We cannot keep relying on other countries for our supply as they will all be experiencing the same problems."

At 27, Viscount Newport is the youngest president in the history of the Shropshire and West Midlands Agricultural Society but is relishing the task ahead.

"I think it proves what a progressive organisation this is that it welcomes both the youngest president in its history and the first female chairman in the same year," he said. "It is a fabulous challenge but I am loving every minute of it. I've met so many people already and I am learning more with each conversation."

He already has ideas to boost visitor numbers.

"The West Mid Show has always been a family attraction and you can see the enjoyment the children are getting from displays such as the monster trucks and the devil's horsemen," he said

"We must keep attractions like these. But what we must also do is show people the amazing work being done on the farm, including the diversification businesses which are developing across Shropshire."

By Rural Affairs Editor Nathan Rous