Environment secretary Owen Paterson is to address rural local authority leaders at a major conference.

Mr Paterson is the keynote speaker at the Local Government Association (LGA) rural conference in Stratford-Upon-Avon on Wednesday (4 September).

The annual event brings together rural policy and decision makers in local government.

It provides an opportunity for local authorities, government partners, local businesses, expert groups and local communities to discuss how rural issues can be addressed.

"With economic recovery a priority across the country, the focus of this year's Rural Conference is growth," said the LGA.

"This major event for rural community leaders will provide the opportunity to discuss some of the crucial issues facing rural areas."

Mr Paterson is expected to underline the government's commitment to rural areas.

Other speakers include LGA rural commission chairman Andrew Bowles, Rural Coalition chairman Robin Teverson, and David Webb, rural affairs chairman at the Federation of Small Businesses.

Conference sessions will explore ways of ensuring rural broadband meets local aspirations for growth and how to bring forward appropriate rural housing.