Mrs Kirkham's heading to Australia following cheese trade deal

Goosnargh cheesemaker Mrs Kirkham's is set to take advantage of new rules which allow for the import of raw milk cheeses into Australia.

Mrs Kirkham's, a family business established in 1978, has had considerable domestic success over the years and its products can be found in shops such as Booths, Harrod's and Waitrose.

Now the company's products have been included in a batch of British raw milk cheese sent to Australia following a new certification arrangement between the two governments in July.

The agreement will also see tariffs on UK exports of cheese, currently up to 20 per cent, fully eliminated after five years, giving UK manufacturers further opportunities in the market.

UK food and drink exports to Australia have more than doubled in the last decade and the new trade deal is expected to increase trade with Australia by 53 per cent, boosting the economy by £2.3bn.

Andrew Bowie, the government's exports minister, said: "Across the globe, the UK is renowned for its high standards in safety and quality so I am excited that businesses across the dairy sector can freely share their produce with Australian consumers to enjoy.

"This is just the latest success story as we continue to unlock billions by breaking down trade barriers. When we open up new markets, we open up new opportunities for small firms to export – boosting wages, supporting jobs and growing the economy."