I am excited to write my first column in the Southend Standard. My column will appear fortnightly and will feature local issues, local concerns, and also what I have done in the constituency.
In addition to the regular surgeries I hold in my constituency offices I also hold surgeries in the community. These have previously been held in community centres, fish and chip shops, pubs and cafes. This month I held my out and about surgery at the Family Place Centre, Woodgrange Drive Estate. The surgery was very well attended by local residents. Cllr Louise Burdett and Cllr Blaine Robin also popped in and were able to address council concerns that were raised by residents.
We recently celebrated Armed Forces Day. The Armed Forces Day is a fantastic way to support the Armed Forces and it is an opportunity for them to raise awareness of their contributions and sacrifices. I took my son to the celebrations in Chalkwell Park and we both had a great time, he particularly enjoyed firing the guns!
Another great event over recent weeks was Shoebury Fair. I would like to thank all the volunteers who organised the fair, they did a brilliant job.
I had a particularly arty June! I visited a number of local art galleries and exhibitions including The Beecroft Art Gallery, TAP, and also South East Essex College and the Art and Design End of Year Exhibition. They each offered such a diversity of art styles and were all really enjoyable. I also spotted Southend beach huts and sand at the 60th Anniversary of the Festival of Britain which was held along the Southbank
I am really looking forward to the summer recess although there is a common misconception that the summer recess provides a long holiday for MP’s. However, this is not the case. The summer recess gives me a chance to catch up with constituents, local issues and spend more time out and about. Expect to see a lot more of me during recess – hopefully this is a good thing!
Until next time,