A Cumbrian MP took his Australian counterpart on a whirlwind tour of his constituency.

Markus Campbell Savours MP for Penrith and Solway took Karen McKeown MP for Penrith New South Wales to see some of the visitor attractions while she was on holiday in the UK.

During the visit, the MPs visited The Lakes Distillery, toured Derwentwater on the Keswick Launch, walked around Castlerigg Stone Circle and visited Penrith Castle.

Although the two constituencies are separated by 10,518 miles, the two Penrith MPs found they have the same issues a world apart.

Karen McKeown MP said: “The issues in Penrith New South Wales are similar to here, it’s affordable housing, families are struggling, transport, basic bread and butter issues that make matters in our everyday lives difficult. But, at the end of the day, there’s more that unites us than divides us.”

Markus Campbell-Savours MP for Penrith and Solway: “At a time when there are those in the world who would seek to divide us. It’s great to meet Karen and talk about the political challenges our respective countries face and how even at the other side of the world, we are so alike.”

The MPs had glorious weather for their tour, and Karen McKeown MP said: “The visit has been great, I love the open spaces, the fresh air, the sunshine. What I really do love is the way you respect your heritage and that’s so important to future generations so they can pay homage to your castles and stones.”

Markus Campbell-Savours added: “My constituency is one of the largest in the country. It’s a shame we didn’t have longer because there is so much more to see.”

Accompanying the MPs on tour was Karen’s husband Brendan McKeown and the Leader of Cumberland Council Mark Fryer. There is also a Cumberland Council in New South Wales!