On Thursday 22nd January, I invited the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to visit Matthew Walker, a fantastic Christmas pudding company based here in Amber Valley.
Matthew Walker is the World’s Oldest Christmas pudding maker, established in 1899, they supply all UK retailers and produce 25 million Christmas puddings every year. Matthew Walker is a great asset to Amber Valley, as both a local producer and employer, employing between 180 and 330 people throughout the year.
I was delighted to invite the Secretary of State to meet with the team and tour the factory to see the team hard at work – we were also able to taste some of their delicious Christmas puddings. The visit was also an important opportunity to discuss with the Secretary of State how UK food businesses can be supported by the Government in the export market and in engaging with international businesses. Businesses like Matthew Walker are absolutely vital to the local and UK wide economic recovery creating local jobs and exploring international opportunities.
Jeremy Threadgold, General Manager for Matthew Walker, said: “We’re proud of what we do; we make the best puddings in the world and we export them around the world too! It was great to welcome Ms Truss and to give her a tour and a taste of the best of British.”
Liz Truss said: “I had a very warm welcome at Matthew Walker and it was a pleasure meeting the team and seeing their whole operation.
“Britain is now in a global economic race which provides some exciting opportunities for iconic British producers to tap into emerging markets.
“This includes historic companies like Matthew Walker who have a great story to tell as well as a fantastic product to market both at home and overseas.”
I am proud to have such a fantastic producer and employer here in the constituency.
