The local business owner attended the Chancellor’s small businesses celebration.

An award-winning business was invited to 11 Downing Street for a special reception hosted by Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves.

Dalton Moor Farm, which is situated just minutes from the throng of the A19 in Murton, was part of the event to recognise the contribution of the UK’s 5.7 million small businesses to the country’s economy, society and communities.

Founder of the vegan farm, Dr Jenny Connor, attended the special event which brought together recent winners and finalists of The Small Awards, which celebrates the UK’s ‘smallest and greatest’ businesses.

The vegan fruit farm and School of Sustainable Living & Wellbeing opened in 2011 and was a finalist for the Net Hero Award for the best sustainability focused business, which recognises a small business with an exceptional commitment to environmental sustainability.

Dalton Moor Farm was shortlisted for its commitment to regenerating, rewilding and improving the land, its sustainable and forward focused approach to farming, using veganic and closed loop principles, with no chemical or animal derived inputs.

In addition, the farm generates energy from wind and sunlight, harvests rainwater, and has a net carbon saving of 244831 kg CO2e per year.

Dalton Moor Farm owner Jenny Connor with some of the products the farm produces | Sunderland Echo

Jenny said: “It was very special indeed and a real surprise to be invited to the reception at Downing Street with The Right Honourable Rachel Reeves MP.”

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “Small businesses are the backbone of Britain’s economy and it’s a privilege to celebrate them at Downing Street today.

“I know how important it is to help make conditions better for small businesses to thrive, and with our Small Business Plan we’re helping cut red tape, give access to finance, cut bills and ensure employees have the skills they need.”