East Devon’s independent parliamentary candidate has pledged to support the region’s ‘lifeblood’ traders and businesses if she is elected in May.

Claire Wright says that the Government ‘buddy’ system – which pairs MPs with business leaders - focuses on building relationships with big corporations, and neglects smaller companies.

She said: “All this confirms my long-held view that this government is only concerned with big business but it is the small and independently owned businesses and the self-employed who are the lifeblood of the economy here in East Devon.

“I have visited and talked to dozens of small companies across the constituency and the comment that I have heard most often is that they are ignored by government and all the big parties.”

Mrs Wright, who currently serves as a district and county representative for Ottery St Mary, said traders in the area faced challenges including business rates and expensive parking.

“I give all these small traders a promise,” she added. “If I am elected on May 7, I pledge I shall be your buddy and will campaign energetically on your behalf.”