Valerie attends ‘A Taste of Shropshire’ event in Parliament

Local businesses in Shropshire came to the Jubilee Room in the House of Commons on Wednesday 31 January 2018.

I am pictured above with Lajina owner of Lajina Masala. Lajina sells spice packs which are full of bold Indian flavours to be used in your own authentic Indian dish in the comfort of your own home. Lajina used to live in Walsall and worked as an accountant but she has now started her own business and also runs several types of cookery lessons. You can find out more about Lajina’s business here: www.lajinamasala.com.

At the event I was delighted to sample Billington’s deliciously crisp and aromatic gingerbread established in 1871 and locally sourced using a secret recipe. I also met with Jeanne Day (below) who came up with the idea of making coffee in a bag and set up her own business called Real Coffee Bag Company Ltd.

In addition, I spoke to Fiona Mulroy the owner of The Shropshire Spice Company Limited who showed me a range of cook-in spice blends including an African inspired Swahili Curry and a range of gourmet stuffing’s. I also tasted cheesy handmade nibbles made by Oak Apple Catering and sold in a number of farm shops across Shropshire.

Small businesses play an important role in the UK economy and it is crucial that we continue to support small businesses in the local community.