The team at Shepherds Purse Artisan Cheeses welcomed Richmond and Northallerton MP Rishi Sunak to the farm as part of celebrations for the firm's 35th anniversary.

Mr Sunak visited the business's base in Thornton-le-Moor, near Thirsk, and after meeting workers, directors Caroline Bell and Katie Matten updated him on the recent launch of the new Organic Yorkshire Blue cheese.

After taking a look inside the dairy to see the team at work and learning about the care and attention that goes into making each cheese, Mr Sunak tried his hand at the task of cheese wrapping.

(Image: Contributor)

He then joined Caroline and Katie in the boardroom where they discussed the opportunities around technology, sustainability, agricultural and artisanal cheese making. The former Prime Minister learnt about the history of Shepherds Purse, before tasting some of their most popular varieties including Mrs Bell’s Salad Cheese, Harrogate Blue and the now major award-winning, Organic Yorkshire Blue.

Caroline said: “It was great to welcome our former Prime Minister and new constituency MP Mr Sunak to the farm, to meet the team, celebrate our big milestone and discuss our plans for growth and sustainability moving forward.”

Mr Sunak added: "I've long been a fan of Shepherd's Purse products and I much enjoyed visiting the family farm where they produce their range of great Yorkshire cheeses.

"The team's commitment to consistent quality is evident in every aspect of the operation and I was excited to hear about their plans to develop the brand and the business further."