A NORTHWICH MP’s work to encourage local businesses to engage with overseas markets was praised by the deputy Prime Minister.

Graham Evans MP ran an Export Fair with UK Trade and Investment in his Weaver Vale constituency to help businesses and entrepreneurs expand their markets.

Mr Evans said: “Across Weaver Vale and the whole of Cheshire there is a wealth of innovative and dynamic companies with the skills and products for an international market.

“The seminar, called ‘Your Export Journey’, was designed to introduce businesses to many aspects of international export and provide information about the support available to expand business markets.

“Last year, companies in the North West exported £26billion-worth of products while, on average, firms new to international trade experience a 34 per cent increase in productivity during the year they start exporting.

“I was very pleased to work with the UKTI to help local businesses expand their horizons and show them what they can achieve if they embrace opportunity.”

The seminar included a number of local companies discussing their experience of exporting, as well as Clive Drinkwater, regional director of UKTI North West, and David Briggs, Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: “He is right that there are dangers in too much duplication – too many Government and non-governmental bodies, quangos and other arm’s length bodies all aiming at the same objective.

“That is why the Government has encouraged local authorities and LEPs to work together to create growth hubs in which there is a single port of call for businesses that want to access the assistance they need to improve exports for businesses in the local area.”