One of the more rewarding aspects of being the local Member of Parliament is talking to you about the issues which affect Rochford and Southend East.
Like most Members of Parliament, I hold regular surgery appointments. During last Friday’s I was able to meet a very inspirational young man called Billy Mansell. On first glance Billy is a well-dressed and eloquent man in his mid-twenties with nothing that could hold him back. However, Billy, like so many others, is suffering from the invisible and debilitating disease known as Fibromyalgia. Unlike most disabilities there is no fast test that can diagnose Fibromyalgia and those who suffer from it experience immense pain that prevents them for taking part in activities others would find normal. Even though he suffers from this, Billy does not let it get him down. On top of lobbying me as his Member of Parliament for support, Billy also coaches sports teams and is a passionate cyclist. Billy is clearly an inspiration to us all. Rather than allowing himself to be consumed by his Fibromyalgia, he is using it to inspire others. Well done Billy.
Surgeries are not the only way that I have been talking to the constituents of Rochford and Southend East. This week Cllr Tony Cox and I were in his ward of West Shoebury knocking on many peoples doors about the issues which affect them. These topics ranged from road congestion to the improvement works at Shoebury Common North. This is a great way to get to know what issues matter to you the most and if you do ever see us out on the doorstep please do not hesitate to come over and talk to us about the issues which matter to you.
Door knocking isn’t the only way to speak to me and I would encourage you to write in or call the office should you have any questions or issues that I may be able to help as your Member of Parliament. You can email at [email protected] or alternatively, call my office which is based in the constituency on 01702 616135.