Erewash Member of Parliament Maggie Throup welcomed the Secretary of State for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, Elizabeth Truss, to Ilkeston when they visited local microbrewery Muirhouse Brewery.
As well as seeing how the local beers are brewed, the two MPs met the brewery owners Richard and Mandy Muir who explained how the different beers are developed and named.
Erewash Partnership Chief Executive Ian Viles also joined the visit, which included sampling the beers which are sold at The Brewery Tap. During the visit, the two MPs and brewery owners Richard and Mandy Muir discussed how the Government is encouraging local businesses.
Maggie said: “I was delighted to see such innovative and original ideas shown by Muirhouse Brewery owners Richard and Mandy. It was also really interesting to learn about the origins of the variety of beers, such as the Ilkeston Giant.
“The Brewery and micro-pub just shows what can be done and how a hobby can be turned into a successful business. I am committed to encouraging more individuals to follow their passions, and ensure that small local businesses are supported so that they can flourish, promoting employment, growth and a stronger local economy.”
Rt Hon Elizabeth Truss MP commented: “It was great to be invited by Maggie to visit the Muirhouse Brewery in Ilkeston. I really enjoyed seeing one of Erewash's thriving local businesses and hearing how they're making a top quality product using the best of British raw materials from Herefordshire, Norfolk and Kent.
“I was also encouraged by the success of their micro-pub - the Brewery Tap - and am keen to explore how we can make it easier for entrepreneurs like Richard and Mandy to open up small, pop up businesses, which create jobs and keep our high streets vibrant.”