Looking out the window, the Lancashire weather does not know what to do at the moment but I do hope it picks up and we have a real summer. Westminster continues to dominate the news for many reasons but please be assured that I continue to represent the constituency of Wyre and Preston North with a loud voice both in London and here in Lancashire.
I continue to look forward to my frequent constituency days where I travel around this large constituency visiting schools, charities, emergency services, local groups, businesses and local authorities. This is often how I find out about what really matters to constituents.
Recently, I visited Deafway, which is a charity working with profoundly deaf people who use British Sign Language as their first or preferred language. Deafway has been working in Lancashire for 125 years.
Recent research identified that deaf people did not have the same access to services in their everyday life that were enjoyed by hearing people. Worryingly it was the services which might affect the lives of deaf people most such as NHS services, the Police and legal services; and Social Services that generated the most criticism/complaint.
The Charity’s overall aim is to reach out to all services that might be used by a deaf person to create equal access for them in their everyday lives. I enjoyed the visit and I would like to thank all involved for making me welcome. The Charity is based in Preston but serves people throughout the County and I look forward to visiting again in the future.
Recently local authorities throughout the country took part in the national ‘Fly a Flag’ campaign. This was to show support for our outstanding Armed Forces and the wider military community including families, veterans and cadets. Having served in the Army myself I am extremely proud of our Armed Forces. The flag raising is particularly relevant this year as we remember the sacrifice made 75 years ago during the D-Day landings. I believe it is extremely important to remember and to ensure future generations understand the sacrifices made by past generations.
Highway related issues remain prominent in my mail bag. I am encouraged to see roads throughout the constituency improving, but there is more to do and with improvements come closures and disruption.
Recently United Utilities undertook work on Mains Lane which should have been carried out off-peak with minimum disruption. Unfortunately it was carried out at peak-time and caused traffic in the surrounding area to come to a standstill.
Knowing that Highways England have plans to upgrade the Norcross roundabout, this prompted me to write to them in order to voice my concerns. These concerns are mainly about the planning of the works and the diversion routes which are to be put in place.
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 email, with a brief description of the issues you wish to raise and your contact details. It is worth bearing in mind that I can often offer assistance 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 02072 195 804 or my Constituency Office on (01995) 672977, email me at [email protected] or write to me at the House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA.