Archbishhop spreads message of support for local businesses (From The Northern Echo)

Archbishhop spreads message of support for local businesses

8:57am Tuesday 9th January 2007

• Print
• Email
• Share

A RELIGIOUS leader has given his backing to the region's small businesses in their battle to survive.

The Archbishop of York, the Most Reverend Dr John Sentamu, stressed the need for everyone to support local businesses.

His call came on a visit to the Deanery of Mowbray, in his parish, which stretches from the River Humber to the River Tees.

He said: "I reckon local is often the best. Food grown and produced in the region is fantastic.

"Plus, local companies are more likely to take on local people and pass on the skills they have learnt. Skills which are passed on this way are often more likely to survive than in the large companies.

"When it comes to buying things, people should buy British. Surely our 2007 resolution ought to be grow, eat, drink and buy British."

His visit took in cheesemaker Shepherds Purse Cheeses, at Newsham, near Thirsk, North Yorkshire.

The award-winning family-run business was set up through a farm diversification scheme in 1987.

Chief executive Judy Bell said: "He was really positive about everything.

"It is fantastic to have someone like him supporting you and it is great for the whole of the region.

"It is more rewarding if people are positive about the businesses and what is happening in rural Yorkshire.

"And it is important to highlight that we have so many really top-quality products out there in the region."

The visit took in several businesses, including the Thirsk Clock youth project.

Dr Sentamu said: "Thirsk Clock also helps local youngsters, with some from families in great difficulties.

"And with it being local, the staff can see what is going on and where the youngsters are coming from, so it is easier to help."

Linda Gibbon, chairwoman of the Clock's trustees, said: "It is important that we have his support. He wants to see what is going on, and having his local support is good for us."

• Print
• Email
• Share