SHADOW Leader of the House of Lords, Baroness Royall of Blaisdon recently co-hosted a showcase event, in the Houses of Parliament, highlighting successful businesses and organisations from the Forest of Dean.

High tech company Versarien were joined by Two Rivers Housing, The Asha Centre, Forest Sensory Services, Skills To Go, bespoke cake makers The Chocolate Strawberry, potter Mary Rose Young, whilst the holiday and leisure sectors were represented by Dean Heritage Centre, Forest Holidays and The Tudor Farmhouse Hotel and Restaurant.

In addition, FAB Recycling of Cinderford, and sister company My Green Fleet were praised for their innovative approach to recycling car parts for private use, businesses and public bodies.

The showcase proved to be a great success and was attended by 'hundreds' of MPs, Peers and Parliamentary staff who sampled produce and heard what the Forest has to offer through a range of local businesses and initiatives.

Following the successful event, Mark Harper MP said: "I was proud to co-host this event, which was a fantastic opportunity for businesses and organisations from all over the Forest to showcase their fantastic products, expertise and initiatives.

"The event was well-attended and many people have since told me how impressed they were with what the Forest has to offer. I pay tribute to all of those who attended – they showed the strength and breadth of the business, charitable and community sectors in the Forest of Dean and I look forward to working with them all again in the future."

Also speaking after the event, Baroness Jan Royall said: "It was great to see so many local businesses and charities showcasing their expertise in Parliament today, they truly showed what the Forest of Dean has to offer.

"I was glad to welcome local charities including Forest Sensory Services, who do great work for disabled people throughout the Forest of Dean."