A factory in Sudbury due to close next year - costing 430 jobs - should be kept for industrial use, community leaders have insisted after a meeting was held about its future.

Representatives from Shotley Heritage Charitable Community Benefit Society Ltd alongside South Suffolk MP James Cartlidge. Pictures: Shotley Heritage Charitable Community Benefit Society Ltd

As the Article 50 deadline rapidly approaches for Britain to negotiate its departure from the European Union, south Suffolk businesses have overwhelmingly called for a no-deal Brexit to be avoided.

I have received a huge number of emails and other communications on the subject of Brexit, and although I cannot conceivably cover every point raised, I will try to set out my position as far as possible.

HONOURING THE REFERENDUM

James Cartlidge, MP for South Suffolk, has unveiled some of the key responses he has received in approaching local firms and farms for their views on the potential impact of a ‘no deal’ Brexit. All contributors, other than trade organisations, have been treated confidentially.

On Friday I visited Hadleigh Community Primary School, and had the pleasure of being shown around by headmaster Gary Pilkington.

Volunteers behind a newly-installed community orchard in Clare believe future generations will benefit from the fruits of their labour.

A Suffolk police dog who nearly died when cruelly knifed has been highlighted as a reasons why a new law protecting animals in service has won widespread support.

‘It’s firmly on the radar’ – transport secretary acknowledges A14 problems

Sandy Martin MP, James Cartlidge MP, Suffolk County Council deputy leader Mary Evans, Transport Secretary Chris Grayling, Jo Churchill MP and Mark Pendlington Picture: BRAD JONES

Hundreds of jobs are at risk of being axed, after one of south Suffolk's largest employers confirmed it will close its factory in Glemsford.

Philips Avent announced today plans to shut its baby care product manufacturing plant in Lower Road in 2020, affecting around 500 jobs.