The government's Minister for Exports visited two Gloucestershire companies yesterday (Tuesday, November 29) to hear about their fantastic export journeys.

Andrew Bowie MP paid a visit to Quedgeley-based Stewart Golf and Versarien Plc at its base at Longhope in the Forest of Dean.

As well as hearing about the companies' export journeys, Mr Bowies shared details about the support the Department for International Trade (DIT) has to offer.

Stewart Golf have been designing and manufacturing premium electric golf trolleys since 2004. CEO Mark Stewart is also an Export Champion, helping DIT promote the benefits of exporting and encourage other companies across the UK to consider selling to overseas markets.

They have had great growth and export success and currently export to more than 50 countries, predominantly the US and Canada.

The minister discussed their work as an Export Champion, how the UK-Australia FTA will help their business in Australia and what further support DIT can offer.

Versarien Plc are an advanced materials producer and a global leader in Graphene production and R&D since 2010.

Their materials technology, including GrapheneWear, has had a great impact across many sectors, including aerospace, automotive and construction.

Since 2012, the company has explored markets including Japan, India, EU, USA, Canada, Brazil, South Korea, Singapore, China and Australia.

The minister discussed the support that DIT has already provided the businesses and what further assistance that can be given to help the business export.

Versarien's CEO Neill Ricketts said: "The objective was to show the export potential for graphene and a usual customer journey. The production techniques were demonstrated and the capabilities on site."

Minister for Exports Andrew Bowie said: "We know that exporters grow the economy, create jobs and put money in people's pockets with 21,600 businesses exporting goods in the South West, supporting over 430,000 full-time jobs in the region.

"It's great to see so many companies recognise the benefits we're creating as an independent trading nation. Stewart Golf and Versarien Plc are leading the charge in exporting their innovative and creative technology made in the UK, sold to the world."

After the visits, Mr Bowie tweeted about the two companies' export success and said: "Brilliant to meet with @versarien at Longhope today and see how their incredible world leading technology is having a game-changing impact across aerospace, automotive and construction."