It was a delight to welcome Churchtown’s Festival Rose Queen, Ellie Singleton, to Parliament this month. Unfortunately for Ellie and her family, the weather was better in Lancashire than London during their trip. I hope the sun makes an appearance for all the upcoming Festivals and Galas, although I know from first-hand experience that the weather is not always kind to us in Lancashire!
My mail bag has been full with many issues including a number of planning concerns. On planning, I have recently met with the Planning Authority, Wyre Council in order to highlight the many concerns of residents throughout the borough. Driving around the borough, I continue to share resident’s concerns about the state of the Highways and the local Highway infrastructure. I am also meeting with Highways England shortly in order to discuss the A585.
The issue of buses and Lancashire County Council’s complete withdrawal of bus services continues to be a matter of serious concern. Living rurally has many benefits but also presents challenges. I know how important these services are and please be assured that I am continuing to make representations to the County Council and local bus companies to try and secure alternative services and routes.
Farmers have been contacting me about many issues and I am making representations to the Secretary of State and Rural Payments Agency, continuing to push the Government to ensure local farmers get a fair deal and receive the support they require. Please do contact me if I can be of any assistance to you.
I have also enjoyed visiting schools recently discussing many issues including testing and standards in schools. I have said many times, we are extremely fortunate here to have so many outstanding schools in our area. I believe it is my role to listen and pass on any concerns from schools to Ministers.
It was a pleasure to visit Garstang St Thomas’ year 4 class to discuss democracy following an invitation from a pupil at the school. Speaking to school groups is always a pleasant task although sometimes challenging!
Trinity Hospice and Palliative Care Services provides an amazing service and I was humbled to visit again recently and meet some of the staff who do such an amazing job in very difficult circumstances.
I continue to meet residents at my advice surgeries covering a wide range of issues, please remember if you would like to attend one the most effective way to contact me is by e-mail, with a brief description of the issues and your contact details. Although often I can address issues without the need for a meeting.
If I can be of any assistance to you please ring my Office at the House of Commons on 0207 219 5804 or my Constituency Office on 01995 672977, email me at [email protected] or write to me at the House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA.