After attending the launch of the website and handbook of the Staffordshire Rural Support Network, Jeremy spoke of his admiration for the work which the group does in the county.

SRSN offers free and confidential friendship, advice and supportfor Staffordshire's rural communities.

"The stress of living or running a business in the countryside may be better hidden, but it still there. The work SRSN does is invaluable in helping people cope and in showing where they can find assistance on matters ranging from accounts to animal welfare.

"I am grateful to Roy Dart, Jenny Salt and the team for their hard work. It is also fitting to remember the huge role which the late Ed Weetman - who sadly died a few months ago - played in setting up SRSN together with Lord Stafford."

The website can be found at www.ruralsupport.co.uk