SKIPTON  MP Sir Julian Smith visited a Skipton business to see how it is helping people to improve the thermal and energy performance of their homes and workplaces.

The Conservative MP visited Merritt & Fryers, off Firth Street, as part of a constituency visit.

Sir Julian was welcomed by Rachel Fryers, managing director, and by Brett Amphlett of the Builders Merchants Foundation (BMF).

He was shown examples of the company's product range available to Merritt & Fryers’ customers in North Yorkshire and East Lancashire.

The MP's visit was organised by the Builders Merchants Foundation, as part of its programme to demonstrate the role of merchants to MPsThe MP's visit was organised by the Builders Merchants Foundation, as part of its programme to demonstrate the role of merchants to MPs (Image: Supplied)

The MP also heard how merchants and their SME customers have fared in recent times, in light of higher prices and rising fuel, labour, and other costs.

Ms Fryers described recruitment initiatives being pursued by individual merchants and the BMF itself, to raise awareness of the building materials supply chain.

Sir Julian said: "It was great to visit Merritt & Fryers and see how they are adopting sustainable and low-carbon practices while continuing to serve the housebuilding and repair markets.

"It is encouraging to see a local, family run business, soon celebrating 90 years, adapting to the future and meeting the needs of both trade customers and homeowners.

"A big thank you to Rachel for showing me how they are contributing to the Skipton and wider Craven area economy."

Ms Fryers said: "I was delighted to welcome Sir Julian today and show him how Merritt & Fryers has evolved since we began in 1935 as a joinery and building company before becoming a builder’s merchant.

"It is great to have our MP take an interest in local firms like ours and offering his insight and support to help Yorkshire businesses to succeed.

"Merchants realise the importance and wisdom of making extra efforts to encourage people to join our supply chain and offer family-friendly employment to appeal to all ages and abilities."

Sir Julian visit was arranged by the BMF as part of its industry and parliament programme, which aims to demonstrate to MPs the role and importance of individual merchants in communities.