WITHAM’S MP has been showing her support for local farmers after visiting a manor famous for its blackcurrants.

Priti Patel paid a visit to Feering-based Feeringbury Manor.

The blackcurrant farm has just been harvested to supply Ribena to UK soft drinks manufacturer Suntory Beverage & Food.

The Home Secretary was given a tour of the farm by owner Giles Coode-Adams.

According to the MP, with just over 90 per cent of all British grown blackcurrants being used to make Ribena, ensuring the long-term viability of the environments they grow in, is vital for future harvests.

Ms Patel also visited the ground’s famous gardens, which are open to the public, on selected days during the year.

During her tour, she saw the blackcurrant plantation and the other crops grown at the Feeringbury Manor which include grapes for wine and willows for making cricket bats. 

The MP was also shown the abundant wildlife living on the farm.

Before the tour, Mr Coode-Adams and Ms Patel had a meeting to discuss the key issues affecting blackcurrant farming and the industry in general, including the importance of protecting wildlife.

Ms Patel, who last visited Feeringbury Manor in 2019, said: “It was great to see the farm again and to hear about this year’s blackcurrant harvest.

“It’s a wonderful advertisement for agriculture in Essex that one of our local farms is growing the blackcurrants used in a world-famous drink.

“I also enjoyed visiting the gardens and I commend Giles for keeping them looking amazing during this long hot summer.”

“Our local farmers do a fantastic job growing food and crops and I had a good discussion with Giles about the current challenges facing the farming industry.

“In these difficult economic times, we are more than ever reliant upon our farmers to ensure the continuity of our food supply and I am pleased to champion our rural businesses. 

“I am grateful for the opportunity to visit the frontline and keep in touch with the latest situation in the farming industry.”

Further information about Feeringbury Manor is available at www.ngs.org.uk/view-garden/841