A NEW political group has been formed in Shropshire aimed at preserving close links with Europe.

The European Movement for North Shropshire and Open Britain Shrewsbury have joined forces with representatives from The Wrekin, Telford and Ludlow constituencies to form The European Movement Shropshire.

This new enlarged group is campaigning for a productive future relationship between the UK and the EU.

At a virtual meeting held last week it was agreed that a county group would best represent the aims of the movement, which are to ensure that the UK maintains the closest possible links to the European Union, by lobbying Shropshire's five MPs who represent the county in Parliament.

With fewer than six months until the end of the Brexit 'transition period' the committee say they believe it is crucial that Shropshire's MPs to argue for a strong and close relationship with the EU.

A new committee has been elected that represents all the five parliamentary constituencies in Shropshire.

Chairman of this new committee, Saffron Rainey, said a positive relationship with the EU was vital for Shropshire.

"We need a comprehensive relationship with our neighbours and largest trading partners, the EU," said Mr Rainey. "It is crucial that these negotiated agreements are allowed to be fully realised.

"A deal is vital for Shropshire, our NHS, our industries, our farms and all its citizens.

"A 'No Deal' or 'Australian type deal' are not options that will benefit the British people."

Meanwhile, Linda Bradbury, deputy chairman, added: "We are campaigning for a good deal that will protect the vital supply of medicines and medical equipment that comes from the EU to the UK."