A RAPIDLY-expanding Swanmore drinks business was paid a visit by Meon Valley parliamentary candidate George Hollingbery.

The Conservative met with Hill Farm Juice owner Will Dobson to discuss the company’s progress which now supplies a range of local shops, hotels and pubs including Chewton Glen spa.

Based in Droxford Road, the firm employs 10 people, as well as an apprentice, producing a range of refreshments as well as pressing and bottling services for other companies.

Mr Hollingbery, who is defending his seat at May's General Election, said: “This is another Meon Valley business success story and just shows that the rural economy here in Hampshire has so much to offer in terms of jobs and creativity. Will’s team is making top quality products that I’m sure will go from strength to strength and I was particularly delighted to see that he has taken on an apprentice who will be able to learn the ropes and carry on the industry into the future.”

Mr Dobson said: “These are exciting times for Hill Farm Juice as we are expanding rapidly, led by entirely by customer demand. To help us expand we’re currently looking for investment to fund new equipment to cope with this demand and it was good to talk to George about some finance options involving business people he knew in the industry.”