Two recession-beating companies in Helston have been given government recognition with a visit from a Minister.

The first stop for MP Justine Greening, Secretary of State for International Development, was at AP Valves on the Water-ma-Trout industrial estate.

Led by managing director Martin Parker, the company produces specialist diving equipment for sport, military and commercial divers, which it exports to 48 countries.

Ms Greening was given a tour of the production facilities as well as the research and development area, before stopping for a photo call.

Mr Parker said: “She was very impressed. She was interested in every single aspect and was being pushed around by her entourage because she was asking so many questions.”

He added that her visit was most welcome, saying: “Anyone from London who is willing to come and see what we do in the provinces is great.”

Ms Greening then visited nearby organic children's clothing company Frugi, also based on the industrial estate, before continuing her trip further up the county.