MP meets tourism and business owners

The MP visited the ancient Stump Cross Caverns and firms including Pateley Bridge Pharmacy, the Tordoff Gallery and Kendall’s Farm Butchers.

While at Stump Cross, Mr Smith spoke to Lisa Bowerman and cave expert Stephen about how difficult things have been for businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and tourism industry, and about provisional plans for expansion which include increasing accessibility.

Mr Smith MP said: “There are so many great local businesses in and around Pateley Bridge – and it is great to be back here once again and see businesses getting busier.

“Stump Cross Caverns is one of Yorkshire’s oldest tourist destinations and I was impressed by the caves and facilities along with their recent innovations.

“I appreciated talking to Sam at the local pharmacy about the vital work that is taking place at the Memorial Hall - I know how hard pharmacists have been working to provide essential services to local residents during these toughest of times.

“I am very pleased that Kendall’s Farm Butchers are doing well after a year which has been difficult for many businesses.

“I am also delighted that the Tordoff Gallery has set up shop and is open in Pateley Bridge.”

While at Pateley Bridge Pharmacy the MP discussed with Sam Khan the vaccine rollout at the Memorial Hall, funding provided and the vital services made available through the Pharmacy, during the toughest of circumstances with the pandemic.

Later, Mr Smith went to stop by Kendall’s Farm Butchers, which is a traditional family butchers on the High Street.

Both Kendall’s Farm Butchers and H Weatherhead & Sons butchers were busy with queues down the street.

Mr Smith managed to briefly catch up with Paul Kendall, who passed on some delicious pork pies, and informed his MP that business has been going well.

The MP also visited the newly opened Tordoff Gallery, which is located on the High Street, and holds a remarkable collection of film posters.