Conservative candidate Harriett Baldwin today pledged to defend Tenbury’s local businesses following the news of a Tesco store planning application. Harriett said: “I am aware that a planning application will go in on April 30th to Malvern Hills District Councillors. I have sought a meeting with Tesco to assess the impact of the new store on local businesses and on employment in the area. “I am a regular shopper in this beautiful town and I value the contribution local family-owned businesses make to the local economy. I urge others to do the same.” Harriett was speaking as shadow DEFRA cabinet minister Nick Herbert made a whistlestop tour in Tenbury looking at area affected by recent flooding. Harriett added: “People across West Worcestershire are looking for a local champion who knows the area and is willing to stand up for them in and act with integrity at all times. Only a vote for the Conservatives will end Labour’s 13 years and disastrous administration.”