BORDERS farmers have joined a Downing Street event recognising the importance of British produce.

Colin and Jill McGregor, of McGregor Farms near Coldstream, were invited to join the event at Number 10 by Borders MP John Lamont (Conservative).

The Food and Farming Champions Reception aimed to celebrate the contributions farmers, local food and drink producers and agricultural businesses make to the UK.

Hosted by Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Steve Barclay MP, the event last week (February 27) saw producers from around the UK gather together.

Jill McGregor said: “Colin and I were delighted to attend the reception at No 10 Downing Street hosted by the Rt Hon Steve Barclay MP.

“It was great to meet fellow producers and growers from across the country and experience being in the centre of the UK Government.”

Mr Lamont, who nominated the McGregors for the reception, said: "It was incredibly difficult choosing just a few people from the Borders to nominate for this event because we have so many fantastic food producers and farmers in the local area.

"I firmly believe the Borders has the best food and drink producers anywhere in the country. We're lucky to have such tremendous produce on our doorstep and I will never tire of championing the small businesses who make it happen.

"Colin and Jill from McGregor Farms make some of the finest produce in the UK and it was a delight to celebrate their hard work at Downing Street."