‘LOCAL business champion’ Colin Barrell was hosted at a reception in Number 10 Downing Street to celebrate the work of businesses up and down the country thanks to Wellington and Wiveliscombe MP Rebecca Pow.

Ms Pow nominated Mr Barrell to attend the occasion, where he met Chancellor Jeremy Hunt.

Mr Barrell owns Mr Miles Tea Room, in Taunton, which is a partnership with West Somerset tea blenders and coffee roasters DJ Miles and Co Ltd.

He also serves as an executive member of Taunton Chamber of Commerce.

Ms Pow said: “Our local businesses, especially the small and medium size companies are the backbone of our local economy.

“In this respect, I was delighted to nominate Colin Barrell as my ‘local business champion’ and welcome him to this reception with the Chancellor at Number 10.

“Colin is the proprietor of the stylish and welcoming Mr Miles Tea Room, in Taunton, and is also an executive member of the Taunton Chamber of Commerce.”

Mr Hunt, who greeted guests at the reception said: “Local businesses are vital for our economy, our day to day lives and our communities.

“Creating jobs, supporting growth in a huge variety of sectors, their tireless hard work does not go unnoticed.

“As Chancellor, I see the contribution that local businesses make across the country to all our cities, towns, and villages, and this is something we can all be proud of.

“Not only do they bring immeasurable value to the economy, but they are also the heart and soul of so many of our communities.”