TWO PROMINENT Stroud business leaders were invited by MP Siobhan Baillie to visit Downing Street this week to attend the Levelling Up Champions’ Reception. 

Chairman of Stroud & District Chamber of Trade and Commerce Tony Davey and Business West Gloucestershire director and vice chair of GFirstLEP Ian Mean were nominated for the event by Siobhan due to their work in improving the district’s economy.

The reception was hosted by Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Michael Gove who chatted with both men.

Stroud News and Journal: MP Siobhan Baillie with business leaders Ian Mean and Tony Davey MP Siobhan Baillie with business leaders Ian Mean and Tony Davey (Image: Siobhan Baillie's office)Ms Baillie said: “I was delighted Tony and Ian could come to No10 with me to meet the secretary of state and be recognised for the work they do to promote business, investment and levelling up in our area.

“It was also important for the minister to hear from Tony and Ian on their views about how the right levelling up bid can transform areas like Stroud and Berkeley where I am working with the town council and the levelling up minister at the moment to see what funds are available.”

Ian said: "It was an honour to be invited to Downing Street.

"I was impressed by the passion of Michael Gove when I talked to him about Levelling Up.

"I believe it is vital for Gloucestershire.

"I told him that his plans to make planning easier for business were so important for economic growth."

Tony said: “I was delighted to have been nominated by Siobhan to attend the Reception at Downing Street.

"It was both a treasured opportunity to see such an internationally famous and significant site, core to the government of our country, and an honour to be present with other community champions who were also being recognised for their contribution towards supporting their local economies and communities, being addressed by Michael Gove.”