MPs put spotlight on Staffordshire in Parliament for tenth anniversary celebration of Staffordshire Day

Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire’s businesses, culture, and talent were showcased in Parliament on Tuesday 28th April, as MPs Leigh Ingham and Gareth Snell co-hosted a House of Commons event to mark the tenth anniversary of Staffordshire Day. The event brought together businesses and industry leaders from across the county with MPs and Ministers, putting Staffordshire’s economic strength, creativity, and skills on a national stage.

Organised alongside We Are Staffordshire and other Staffordshire MPs Dave Robertson and Dame Karen Bradley, the event included a showcase featuring more than 20 businesses. The exhibitors represented the full breadth of Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, from global manufacturers GE Vernova and JCB to independent food and drink producers, tourist attractions, education providers, and cultural organisations.

Three roundtables took place in Parliament, exploring the opportunities and challenges shaping Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire’s future. Leigh Ingham MP led a discussion on the role of culture in Staffordshire’s identity and economy. Gareth Snell MP chaired a session on skills and learning for business, in partnership with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce. Josh Newbury MP led a session on an Interview Promise for care-experienced young people.

MPs were also able to sample the delights of Staffordshire Oatcakes for breakfast which were on the menu in the Members’ Tea Room.

Leigh Ingham, MP for Stafford, Eccleshall, and the villages, said: “It was an absolutely buzzing event, with so much interest in Staffordshire from MPs, Ministers, and industry leaders.

“The roundtables were a constructive opportunity for conversations about skills, investment, and opportunity. I hope Ministers left today with a clearer picture of what this part of the country has to offer, and the specific investment we need to move forward.”

Gareth Snell, MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central, said: “Today’s events were a fantastic opportunity to showcase the very best of Stoke‑on‑Trent and Staffordshire, from our businesses and industries to our culture and heritage.

“From Staffordshire oatcakes being served to MPs to seeing them try their hand at throwing a pot, all set against the historic backdrop of Parliament, it was a truly memorable occasion.

“We must now build on this momentum and continue to show Ministers just how much our county has to offer. With the right investment, Stoke‑on‑Trent and Staffordshire can not only succeed, but thrive.”

Staffordshire Day takes place annually on May 1st. 2026 marks its tenth anniversary, with a programme of events across the county including the launch of the Staffy Trail, a new visitor economy initiative celebrating Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire as a destination for adventure, culture and community.