West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin joined MPs and VIPs from across the region to help celebrate a golden anniversary for the Cotswolds. The MP attended a reception in Westminster to mark the 50th anniversary of the region as an ‘area of outstanding natural beauty’. Bredon Hill, in Harriett’s West Worcestershire constituency, is part of the Cotswolds. Harriett joined Environment Minister Rory Stewart and Worcestershire County Councillor Liz Eyre to mark the anniversary as well as celebrating some of the local produce including local gin and the world-famous Hook Norton beer. Harriett commented: “The Cotswolds is a beautiful part of the world and tourists come from all over the world to enjoy our landscape and unique products. “I am particularly encouraged to hear plans for improved cycle access for the area and it is something I regularly raise for cyclists across Worcestershire including visitors to the Malvern Hills. “I am also keen to work with the Cotswold Line rail operator Great Western Railways to make it easier for visitors to travel beyond Oxford to the Cotswolds and beyond. “Top of the list is the need to complete the dualling of the line between Oxford and Worcester which will allow faster and more frequent train services. “Tourism is an important part of our local economic plan and we must do all we can to welcome visitors and give them a world-class welcome.” Photo: (l-r) Harriett Baldwin MP, Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP, Liz Eyre, Rory Stewart MP.