ANN Widdecombe is an MP with an ample personality even though her figure is a bit less intimidating these days.

But when she dropped in on a business that is close to many women's hearts, she made it clear a fitting was the last thing on the agenda.

Ample Bosom, at Old Byland, near Sutton Bank, North Yorkshire, has achieved worldwide renown as a supplier of lingerie and swimwear for the fuller figure. Launched four years ago as a diversification business by farmer's wife Sally Robinson, it has proved to be a huge success, with 28,000 customers worldwide.

However, when the Tory MP called round yesterday she was quick to dismiss any suggestion she might join their ranks. "I won't be making a purchase," she firmly told reporters. "I like to think that these days I'm not as ample as I once was."

Miss Widdecombe popped in at Ample Bosom during a day of engagements in the area to see for herself the business that is now exciting even the film world.

"It is farm diversification scheme that really has been hugely successful," she said.

"From a very simple idea, quite an empire has been built."

The MP spent an hour at the farm, and shared a cup of tea with Sally as they talked about the business and the problems of the rural economy generally.

But while Miss Widdecombe definitely is not a customer, Sally hinted that some of the MP's Commons colleagues were.

"I don't divulge who my customers are - but I do have some lady politicians among them."