FARMING Minister, Conservative MP George Eustice, paid his first visit to Holsworthy agribusiness centre on market day last week.

Mr Eustice's visit and tour was led by Kivells auctioneer James Morrish.

On his arrival to the centre on the outskirts of the town, which has cost just over £7-million, Mr Eustice said he welcomed such investment: "Having these new market facilities is great. Clearly it's a very important asset.

"I think it's really important in areas like West Devon and North Devon where we have got a large agricultural industry and having a market is very important to benchmark prices.

"There will be many farmers here — it's a good social thing as well. Farming can be quite a lonely occupation, particularly for farmers farming alone.

"I think it's a really important hub for the rural community — a fantastic investment."

He referred to car parking at the centre and said he could see the market was 'very, very busy'.

Before Mr Eustice arrived, Mr Morrish said: "The biggest problem we have is car parking, because there are so many people here.

"I am pleased to confirm the landlords will soon be putting in for planning permission to hardcore fields for the spring."

But the problem with car parking was 'a nice problem to have', he added.

Before his tour of the market, Mr Eustice was quizzed by members of the press on topics including bovine TB and milk prices.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.