INTERNATIONAL Trade Minister Liam Fox made a visit to businesses in two Cumbrian constituencies as he joined conservative candidates on their campaigns.

He first joined Westmorland and Lonsdale candidate James Airey as they visited Kendal Nutricare to hear from factory management and workers about their expansion plans. Dr Fox also rallied Conservative members at the Castle Green Hotel.

He said: "It was a pleasure to visit and meet Kendal Nutricare at James Airey's invitation.

"As the U.K. leaves the EU it is so important to have MPs who want Britain to make the most of the opportunities that Brexit present, rather than those who want to carp from the sidelines about a second referendum.

"James highlighted to me the importance of getting the best Brexit deal for businesses across Westmorland and Lonsdale as well as the need to make the most of the growing international markets to help local businesses expand and export internationally. He will be a truly influential Conservative MP in any Future government."

Mr Fox then joined Barrow and Furness hopeful Simon Fell on a visit to Ulverston glassmakers Cumbria Crystal and LED light specialists Oxley to hear first-hand the area’s Brexit priorities and discuss what support local businesses need to get the maximum benefits from new opportunities for export and trade.

Mr Fell said: "I’m delighted that Liam took up my invitation to visit our fantastic area and listen to our ambitions for Brexit and international trade.

"Cumbria Crystal is a fantastic example of a local business with a strong creative entrepreneurial spirit. Oxley is a world-class business with truly global reach. For both, a successful Brexit with strong international trade deals is crucial to continuing existing business, and expansion."