MPs today praised the strength of Lancashire's countryside economy and the part small firms play in the growing sector.

Almost 30,000 people in the Ribble Valley constituency are employed by rural businesses, the vast majority in micro and small businesses.

MP Nigel Evans today welcomed the release of the statistics by the Country Land and Business Association.

The CLA represent 33,000 members, including farmer, landowners and other rural businesses across England and Wales, who contribute towards the £210bn the rural economy generates each year.

Mr Evans said: “The Ribble Valley is an area of outstanding natural beauty which also contains some of the most vibrant and dynamic businesses in the country, whether it be the Paper Cup Company in Clitheroe or James’ Places, who manage and run leading pubs and restaurants.

"These statistics from the CLA show that rural businesses in the Ribble Valley play a vital role in creating economic growth in the region and that entrepreneurs are now more likely to start up a business in a rural area than an urban area.

"I am totally in agreement with the CLA in calling on the Government to encourage investment in infrastructure in rural areas, through the commitment to a Universal Service Obligation to guarantee fast, reliable broadband and by ensuring all business policies support rural economic growth.

"Rural businesses are the backbone of the British economy and it is vital that they receive the support they need from Government to enable them to invest, grow and create more jobs.”