On Friday, I visited EPI Group in Cobham. It is an innovative global consultancy that coordinates seismic testing in the energy sector, covering oil and gas, shale extraction, carbon capture and storage and various other new technologies. Tucked away on the high street, it is a global leader advising many of the big multinational energy firms.

Co-chairmen Brian and Jenny Goddard invited me in for a briefing on their business growth with their brilliant team. Peter Knox and Richard Thompson explained their land and marine operations from Africa to the Middle East. It was a terrific opportunity for me to pick their brains about energy security, UK shale gas reserves, the prospects for nuclear rejuvenation and renewable technologies.

With increasing expectation that UK shale gas reserves may now be capable of helping plug the UK's energy demand over the medium and longer term, it is great to be able to tap into local expertise on the subject. EPI recently received the Queen's Award for Enterprise in International Trade. It is another example of a truly world-beating local firm based here in Elmbridge.