Supporting Salisbury Civic Society

Arundells is one of the most significant architectural sites in Salisbury, and on Friday, I joined Salisbury Civic Society to unveila commemorative plaque.

I think it is right that Arundells is provided with every opportunity to become a viable opportunity, and I am glad that the Civic Society's plaque promotes the historical value of the site. The Civic Society's plaques are dotted across the city, and provide a wealth of interesting insight and unusual information to visitors and residents alike. Arundells is a site of great local importance, and I feel the plaque duly recognises its importance, as well as the contribution made to Salisbury by the life of Sir Edward Heath.

The plaques are just one aspect of the Civic Society's contribution to the life of Salisbury; their award scheme also recognises outstanding buildings and promotes innovative thought in architectural design across the city.

More information on the Civic Society and their work can be found here.

Help to Hear Drop In

Reforms to the NHS are currently generating a flurry of interest, and I believe now is the perfect opportunity to highlight the work of an excellent group who already provide an outstanding healthcare solution to those in need.

Action on Hearing Loss is a national charity working to provide support and services to those suffering from any form of hearing loss or tinnitus. Their 'Hear to Help' initiative works to train community volunteers who are then able to provide support in the local area, from showing individuals how to get the best from their hearing aid to providing training and supportive services.

Last week, I met with the dedicated volunteers who operate Salisbury's two hour drop in session at Salisbury Library. I fully appreciate now how much support these individuals provide in driving up the quality of care. In just one session, 63 individuals were able to easily and conveniently access care that would have proved more difficult and time consuming through the NHS. Well done to the many volunteers I met who were refurbishing hearing aids and supplying batteries to their owners.

Visiting Bourne Valley Day Centre

I was back in the constituency this Friday, and keen to get out and about again after last Friday's disappointment in the Commons for the Daylight Saving Bill. This week, I travelled to Winterbourne Dauntsey where the Day Centre meets every Friday.

They provide a weekly day out for older residents of the Bourne Valley and those who have recently moved into homes in Salisbury. There was an extremely welcoming and friendly atmosphere at the Day Centre, and all the members clearly enjoyed being there greatly. It has also been running for over 30 years now, and has become an integral part of the social community in the Winterbournes.

It was also great to see the finished quilt that all the members had contributed to (which I am pictured with!). In my mind, it says a great deal about this small community that everyone is willing to get involved and pursue these fantastic projects.

Opening New Sports Hall

I always value any opportunity available to offer my support to local schools. Recently, I was invited to open a new sports hall at Trafalgar School in Downton. 

Since my last visit to the Trafalgar School, the progress that has been made is astonishing and this really is an extraordinary sports facility that will be of great benefit to a thriving school community. Sport is an activity that is essential to the curriculum, but at the same time provides a vast number of opportunities as an extracurricular activity; I am sure this facility will allow a large number of students to excel in their sports and provide a great deal of enjoyment. 

This visit was one in a succession recently; I am pleased that schools in Wiltshire are gaining levels of funding that mean we can continue to provide the best facilities to our children across the county.

Visiting St Paul's Construction Site

It is an absolute tragedy that in my constituency, there are still people classified homeless or in accommodation unfit for purpose. I know the Council works tirelessly to do everything possible to minimise this, but it is still greatly valued when new construction projects get underway to alleviate the problem.

The project seeks to fully refurbish the exterior of the building and provide much needed internal improvements and repairs, including new kitchen fittings and the introduction of a gas fired central heating system. It has garnered widespread support from the local community, including numerous charities and individuals; over £180,000 has been raised so far.St Paul's Homes have become more and more derelict over the past few years, and are in desperate need of refurbishment. I welcome the project that BCHA, in collaboration with Salisbury Trust for the Homeless, is undertaking.

I have no doubt that this development will become an important safe haven for those in need, and I wish BCHA and STFH every success with the project.

Parkinson's UK Coffee Morning

This Saturday I was pleased to attend a coffee morning at the local Salisbury and District branch of the Parkinson's UK Society, where I was very warmly welcomed. I greatly enjoyed discussing issues such as the requirements of reform of social care and the impact of the current demographic situation on support for the elderly.

I strongly support reform to the care system, and recognise how urgently changes are needed. I feel it is important to ensure that policy making in this area is honest about the size of the need and the reality of the funding challenge. Inevitably greater contributions will be required from my generation if we are to have a system that is fit for purpose for future generations.

The coffee morning gave me an opportunity to engage with some of my constituents on a wide variety of topics – from concessionary bus travel for the elderly to complex moral issues like stem cell research ethics! I always enjoy debate with my constituents, and this was no exception; I am grateful to the Society for having me and look forward to the resolution of some of their concerns!

7th Heaven

On Saturday, I was delighted to be invited to open a new craft store in Salisbury. 7th Heaven, located on Fisherton Street, seeks to provide craft and hobby supplies, something I think the people of Salisbury will greatly appreciate, especially in the run up to Christmas!

7th Heaven is a family run business operated by four members of the Gardiner family. I am pleased to see such an enterprise succeeding in Salisbury; local businesses are the pillars of our community, and the strong family ethos that underpins many of them in South Wiltshire is something we can all be proud to support. The store will also be offering crafting classes as well, and I am pleased to note that the Gardiners' are willing to share their expertise with the people of Salisbury.

I have no doubt that 7th Heaven will become a popular stop for both local residents and tourists and I wish them success for the future.

SCRAP Plastic Bags!

Although currently away in Pakistan with the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (more on that next week when I return), I am looking forward to getting straight back into the constituency on Monday.

On Monday night I am attending a meeting at the Guildhall at 7:30 hosted by SCRAP (Salisbury City Residents Action on Packaging. In this day and age where we are so conscious of the impact we have on the environment, SCRAP's efforts to eliminate unsustainable packaging should be applauded.

The event is open to all and promises to be an interesting presentation, hopefully followed by some lively debate on how our community can work together for a greener Salisbury!

On your marks, get set, go!

This Sunday, I was invited by the Trussell Trust to start their annual Food Bank 5k over at Old Sarum. I am always happy to support a local charity that I know does such a great deal for our community; the Food Bank is a brilliant resource that started in Salisbury, and now provides much needed emergency supplies to around 60000 people nationally. Seeing almost a hundred runners turn out to show their support for this cause on such an overcast day highlights the dedication to charity that I am continually delighted to see in Salisbury. Twice as many people as the Trust expected actually took part this year, and hopefully even more will compete next year. Somehow I have ended up volunteering to run myself next year, and look forward to tackling the challenge!

The event itself was a great success again this year; I stayed to see many of the runners from the finish line and presented trophies to the first three men and women across the line. The quickest time was an outstanding 22 minutes! Congratulations to everyone who took part and helped make it a success.

Busy Day in the Constituency

After a busy week in Westminster, I was glad to return to the constituency last Friday and launch into another exciting day. I had a highly successful meeting discussing the 2012 Amesbury Regeneration with Mayor Andy Rhind-Tutt, who is energetically pursuing the project. I look forward to keeping in touch with future developments, particularly around the value of Amesbury's heritage for developing a stronger profile for Wiltshire's tourism industry.

This was followed by a meeting with local Salmon and Trout Fishermen where we discussed the challenges facing them with aquatic environmental issues. I look forward to discussing these on a future visit to the Wylye and will be lobbying the Minister on the subject. I held one of my regular surgeries in the afternoon and I will once again do my utmost to handle all the issues that were brought to my attention in that surgery.

The day ended at a Jazz and Dance night where I made a brief appearance to draw the raffle prizes. The fundraiser was organised by two local causes I passionately support, the Trussell Trust and SWAN Advocacy. I look forward to firing the starting gun at this weekend's Trussell Trust Foodbank 5K.

Volunteering at Salisbury Shopmobility

Volunteering at Salisbury Shopmobility...

CI Precision in Churchfields

It was both a pleasure and an eye-opener to learn more about the remarkable work of CI Precision in Churchfields. The Roberts family have grown their business into a remarkable high-tech hub and manufacturing operation right in the heart of Salisbury.

Constable exhibition at Salisbury Museum

On Friday, I was delighted to not only have a chance to view the magnificent Constable exhibition at Salisbury Museum, which I heartily recommend, but also to play my part in marking a trail of locations from where the artist is believed to have painted his iconic images of the city.

I unveiled one of the stops on the trail at the Rose & Crown, where Constable admired the view back in 1831.

Salisbury Child Contact centre, you bet!

I'm delighted to say that Salisbury Child Contact centre are £107 better off, thanks to Ladbrokes, who this week paid out on the charity bet I placed with them back in November last year.

With both Salisbury City FC and Southampton FC flying in their respective leagues, I opted for a double on both to win promotion. Later the same day, I met Liz Sirman from the Child Contact Centre and promised that, if I came up trumps, the money would be hers.

Saints obliged early, giving me all the more reason to celebrate The Whites' thrilling last-gasp play-off victory!

Salisbury's child contact centre provides a safe, neutral meeting place for children whose parents have broken up in the most difficult of circumstances so that they can retain a relationship with their absent parent.

As a small charity, entirely reliant on a small band of volunteers, I am hopeful that the money will buy the children a good selection of toys and games to enjoy with their mums and dads.

Awareness for Juvenile Diabetes

I was delighted to 'get on my bike' on Saturday and take part in a very public spinning challenge in the Guildhall square, raising money and awareness for Juvenile Diabetes.

Along with my colleague, MP for Devizes Claire Perry, I was part of Team Westminster, aiming to cycle as far as possible in an exhausting eight-minute stint.

If you want to see how we got on, the distances we achieved are online at www.spintocurediabetes.org.uk, along with more details of brilliant fundraising events going on across the country.

Campaign to save Ocean Ward

I have become involved with - the campaign to save Ocean Ward – the brilliant children's cardiac surgery centre in Southampton that has saved – and continues to improve - the lives of so many Salisbury children. Last week I attended a meeting in Parliament about the ongoing national review of children's cardiac surgery which aims to reduce the number of paediatric cardiac surgery centres.

On Friday, Richard, Kirsty and Lucy Maguire were among the visitors to my advice surgery.

I was delighted to discuss the progress of the campaign with them and also to sign the petition for the retention of paediatric cardiac surgery at Southampton.

The Maguire family are one of many Salisbury families who have been in touch with me over the last few weeks who have good reason to be grateful for the care and expertise at Southampton. As a desperately poorly baby, Lucy underwent complex lifesaving open heart surgery and is today a beautiful four-year-old, who enjoys school, ballet and swimming lessons.

In my view, the only criteria the review should consider is which option will deliver the greatest number of wonderful outcomes like this one.

Halfway hostel, Dolphin Street

I was delighted to test my head for heights in order to take part in the topping out ceremony for Alabare's very impressive new 'half-way' hostel in Dolphin Street.

I am certain that it will do marvellous work readying people to return to fulfilled lives and independence.

Parkinsons Forum

At the weekend, I was honoured to be invited to join the panel for a Parkinsons Disease discussion forum at Salisbury District Hospital. It was a delight to meet and chat to experts and members – both formally and later, over lunch.

Citizens Advice on Money Active

I was very pleased to join the MoneyActive session with Wiltshire representatives of the Citizens Advice Bureau in Westminster. I gained valuable insights into the problems of managing money effectively and a clear understanding of the valuable work done by the CAB to help people deal with financial problems.

Helping make a dream come true for a 16-18 year old

I have been contacted by Childrens Chance, a local charity, which has £1000 to give to a young person in Salisbury aged between 16 and 18.

Applications close on 1st May 2011 for the first award of the Bobbie Chettleburgh Grant, which gives an opportunity for a young person living in the SP1 or SP2 postcode areas to experience something that would otherwise be out of their reach financially, for example a gap year, a rugby tour, an orchestral tour, a community project overseas, a football academy, tennis coaching, school ski trip etc

If you know a deserving young person for whom £1000 could make all the difference, go to www.childrenschance.co.uk for more information.

Farley Fox Playground Opening

On Saturday, I was honoured to be asked to declare the new Farley Fox playground officially open. There was an excellent turnout to enjoy the launch and festivities.

The culmination of years of effort by the community, it is a superb facility that I am sure will enrich the lives of many young people and some older ones with the adult fitness equipment that is also included.

Salisbury Tourism Week

On Friday, I accepted an invitation to spend some time at Salisbury's Tourist Information Centre, celebrating British Tourism week and promoting all the wonderful things that Salisbury has to offer visitors.

I am keen to do all I can to help this area maximise the benefits it receives from tourism and I enjoyed talking through some of the key issues with Jane Fry and her team.

Salisbury TIC is a multi award-winner and, as ambassadors for Salisbury, its friendly, knowledgeable staff are second to none.

Power down for dinner

Yesterday I was delighted to join colleagues from all parties on College Green to support the Power Down for Dinner Campaign. The campaign, which is supported by Bisto, is all about celebrating the role of family mealtimes in promoting togetherness in family life.

We all lead hectic lifestyles now and taking the time to sit down together as a family and discuss the day is an activity that too often has to take a back seat.

National Autistic Society

I was delighted to meet up with Henry Clark, a National Autistic Society Young Campaigner from Winterslow, at the parliamentary launch of the NAS's You Need To Know charter, which aims to increase understanding of the condition among Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services staff.

Henry along with the rest of the Young Campaigners' Group, who all have autism, held a special screening of their film 'Open Your Mind', which they created about their experiences. They also unveiled a 12-point charter to help explain simple changes to environment and communication that can really help autism sufferers.

It was a privilege to spend time with these intelligent and talented teenagers. They've worked extremely hard and overcome many difficulties to produce their charter and film. Many of the points they have put forward are simple to put into practice, and some require little or no cost, and I will campaign locally to help our local CAMHS services to take these ideas on board.

Busy week in Parliament

I have spent a busy week in Westminster. I have asked my second PMQ yesterday, as well as putting questions to Oliver Letwin, the Cabinet Office Minister, and Gary Streeter, spokesman for the Speaker's Committee on Electoral Commission. You can read my speech on the Protection of Freedoms Bill here, or under the In Parliament section of my website.

Focus Point Volunteering Day

Last Friday, my latest day of volunteering was spent with the wonderful staff and clients of Focus Point on Stratford Road.

As well as joining in activities with the service users, I was delighted to have the opportunity to chat about funding (and other issues) with team leader Zanna Harris and her dedicated staff.

They do a superb job looking after some of the most vulnerable people in our community and I am proud to have people like them in my constituency.

No to AV

The Conservative No to AV campaign has now officially launched, and activists across the country will be out delivering leaflets, knocking on doors and explaining to people why the Party is opposed to the AV system.

William Hague has sent an email to the entire Conservative mailing list, and today, David Cameron gave a speech setting out our opposition to the proposed system.

The Conservative website gives a selection of reasons on why you should say No to AV.

AV is unfair

With First Past the Post, everybody gets one vote. But under AV, supporters of extreme parties like the BNP would get their vote counted many times, while people who vote for one of the mainstream candidates would only get their vote counted once.

AV doesn't work

Rather than the candidate who receives the most votes winning the election, the person who finishes second or even third could be declared the winner.

AV is expensive

Calculating the results is a long, complicated process, which would cost the taxpayer millions. It can take days to figure out exactly who has won.

AV is discredited

Whereas First Past the Post is the most widely used system in the world, only 3 countries actually use AV - Fiji, Australia and Papua New Guinea. In Fiji they want to get rid of it, and in Australia six out of ten people want to scrap it.

No-one wants it

Even the 'Yes' campaigners don't actually want AV - they see it as a convenient stepping stone to even more reforms. Many of the Yes campaigners have previously criticised AV.

AV is not a proportional system

The independent commission chaired by the senior Liberal Democrat Roy Jenkins in 1998 concluded that AV was 'even less proportional' than our existing system, and warned that it was 'disturbingly unpredictable'.

Education Bill

Yesterday evening, I spoke in the debate on the Education Bill. You can read the transcript by clicking this link. I am very proud of all schools in our constituency and I believe this Bill will do much to help them flourish even more.

Godolphin School

This afternoon I have visited the Godolphin School, talking with Sixth Formers there about politics, the life of an MP and answering any questions they had. I've just got back from meeting the Till Valley Conservatives, and about to head out on to the streets of the City with the Salisbury Street Pastors to see the work they do.

Salisbury Trust for the Homeless

This morning, I have managed to fit in two meetings and the launch of the Salisbury Trust for the Homeless Campaign to reburbish the St Paul's Almshouses at St Paul's Church. I wish them the best of luck, and urge you to give to this very good cause.

APPG for Financial Education

This week I was delighted to be among the founder members of a new All Party Parliamentary Group promoting financial education for young people and to be at the launch event, attended by Money Saving Expert, Martin Lewis.

In a recent study, 68 per cent of students were unable to identify the cheapest loan, when given a selection of different products to choose from.

I believe that the best way to beat the scourge of personal debt and drive unscrupulous lenders out of business is to equip the next generation with the information they need to make informed and responsible choices.

Hopefully, the group will be able to ensure that young people leave school with the knowledge and confidence they need to control their money rather than let it control them.

Cutting the first sod for South Wilts Sports Club

(c) Denis Murphy/www.sport4salisbury.com

I was honoured to cut the first sod on the site of the new Pavilion at South Wilts Sports Club on Saturday. I, for one, can't wait to see the smart new clubhouse, serving the existing sporting community and, hopefully, attracting plenty of new people to get involved in local sport.

I am well aware how much blood, sweat and tears have gone into getting to this point and it is fitting that it has been a team effort, from first to last.

With the inclusion of conference facilities, I hope and expect that Salisbury and South Wilts Sports Club is about to enter a bright new era as a magnet for the entire sporting community.

Cafe Alabare

My latest volunteering stint was with Alabare Christian Care Centres. In an attempt to gain an overview of the vast range of work Alabare does, I was put to work in several sites across the city centre – Cafe Alabare, the drop-in centre and the charity's head office.

There is no better way to gain a full understanding of the work of an organisation and the needs it is addressing than by spending a day getting 'hands-on' with its day to day running and Alabare was no exception. They gave me a tough but thoroughly enlightening and worthwhile day, for which I am very grateful.

Holocaust Memorial Day

Today, 27th January 2011, marks the 66th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration and extermination camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau. The Holocaust Educational Trust placed a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons to give MPs the opportunity to remember those who were persecuted and murdered during the Holocaust.

I have signed the Book of Commitment and pay tribute to those remarkable individuals who survived the appalling events of the Holocaust and have since dedicated their lives to educating younger generations about the dangers of allowing persecution and intolerance to take hold in society.

Ladbrokes Charity Bet

Today, I was delighted to accept an invitation from Ladbrokes to visit the Salisbury branch in Fisherton Street and chat with staff and punters.

While I was there, Ladbrokes kindly offered me a £50 charity bet and, after much deliberation, I plumped for what I hope will be a sure thing - a double on Salisbury City FC and Southampton FC to each gain promotion this year.

For the remainder of the season, I will be keeping a particularly close eye on the fortunes of our two local high-fliers!

Speaking of which, what a great result for City on Saturday against Wrexham. Let's hope the Whites can go marching on to further Trophy glory!

Lifeblood 2011 VTE Prevention Awards

This week I presented an award to local haematologist, Dr Tamara Everington, in recognition of her work to combat thrombosis (blood clots), at the inaugural Lifeblood Thombosis Prevention Awards ceremony held in Westminster.

Dr Everington's combination of intelligence, charisma, hard work and sheer persistence has made her a great champion for thrombosis prevention locally and nationally. Working with her colleagues she has been successful in building a high quality thrombosis prevention programme for patients in Salisbury.

Thrombosis is a devastating killer. It is astonishing to think that 500 people die each week in our hospitals from this largely preventable condition. Making sure that people are aware of the dangers of developing blood clots, particularly during hospital stays, and ensuring they are properly risk-assessed by hospital staff , will go a long way to reducing the thousands of preventable deaths from this potentially fatal condition.

Happy New Year

Happy New Year! As 2011 dawns it is with some trepidation that I look at the prospects for the months ahead. As the Prime Minister pointed out in his New Year message there are clearly some tough times facing the country in this coming year. The impact of the VAT increase, changes to spending levels and concerns about increased interest rates will dominate household concerns but there is also a deeper sense that the changes the Government are making will lead to a fundamental improvement in the outlook for the country. Today the UK is rather like someone who has been building up a large credit card debt coming out of a meeting with a debt adviser - if certain sensible short term disciplines are followed there is every hope that prosperity will return when the debts are cleared.

However, I am not flippant about the difficulties many in my constituency and beyond will face this year. We still have no certainty on the future of the HPA at Porton, there are many on low incomes who are anxious about how benefit changes will impact them. There are individual "cases" that are in process with my office where tough personal circumstances need quick interventions from various agencies of Government so that lives can be improved. As I said on the morning of 7th May when I was elected I will continue to strive to be the most effective advocate and representative I can for the people of Salisbury and South Wiltshire in 2011 and my office is ready to help where we can.

On the national politics front, the Referendum on AV will take place in May. I will be voting against this change as I don't think AV is a better alternative to the first-past-the-post system though I feel like a footballer asked to comment on the rules of his own game when discussing this matter. It will be for the people to decide and that is how it should be.

I also think 2011 will be the year when the Coalition beds down - the novelty of the once in a generation arrangements of two parties sharing power has taken some getting used to - for MPs and the commentators who are used to a two- party dynamic and find the disagreements difficult to plot in the mental map of the political landscape that has arisen in the last 30 years. In 2011 the disagreements will be less remarkable as they will be expected as two parties see things differently - though perhaps when decisions are made at cabinet there will need to be more discipline in how the settled will is then justified by all members of the Government.

The debate around the proposed constitutional changes to the House of Lords and the electoral system will provoke a lively debate in the country but the key challenge for 2011 will be to see debts progressively reduced as the economy recovers and growth returns to UK plc – bringing prosperity and optimism for the long term health of our country. It will be an exciting year and of course one thing we can guarantee is that much will happen that we could contemplate today. I wish all my constituents and their families a happy and fulfilled 2011!

Happy Christmas

I have just posted the last batch of letters to constituents before Christmas and I am now going to take a few days off with my family before I address the Wilton Hunt on 27th December. I wanted to take this opportunity to wish all my constituents a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

It has been an amazing year for me personally. This time last Christmas Eve I did not know whether I would be called for an interview for the vacancy left following Robert Key's retirement. Since then I have been selected, elected and been an MP for nearly 8 months. I have now established my office in Brown Street and Westminster and feel that I am getting to grips with the wide range of roles that I am asked to fulfil as a Member of Parliament. Trying to be a "fair-broker" in disputes and discussions locally, acting as an advocate for constituents as well as provide a listening ear and advice at constituency surgeries.

At Westminster, I have enjoyed work on the Defence Select Committee; I have led an Adjournment debate on the future of the HPA at Porton; asked many written and oral questions and also participated in numerous discussions on policies that impact the people of Salisbury and South Wiltshire. There is always more to do and I will write about my plans for 2011 early in the New Year.

I know the new Coalition Government's decisions will not have pleased everyone – and I am acutely aware that for many Conservatives the transition to supporting a Coalition Government has taken some adjustment. I have tried to use my best judgement on what is right for the people of Salisbury and South Wiltshire in my voting and have tried to offer a speedy response to anyone who contacts me asking why I have voted one way or the other. I will always do my best to be accessible to my constituents.

Before I sign off I would like to thank all those who have written me kind notes and sent Christmas greetings over recent weeks – they are appreciated and valued. I look forward to meeting many of my "new" constituents early in 2011 as I complete my first 12 months in Parliament as your MP. Happy Christmas!

Friends of South West Racing Reception

I spoke at the Friends of South West Racing Reception in the House of Commons on 15th December 2010 and stressed the importance of Racing United's campaign for a Fair Levy, as if the Levy continues to be reduced it will have a huge impact on the overall funding of horse racing. This in turn will have a knock on effect on local race courses such as the excellent racecourse in Salisbury.

I am hoping the Secretary of State's decision on the levy in the New Year will ensure the decline in resources for the industry is halted and racing is able to flourish.

Brown Street Surgery

My busy weekend has been rounded off this morning, with a surgery at my constituency office at 12 Brown Street. It was, once again, full of an interesting range of issues and stimulating conversation.

BBC Wiltshire Carol Service

Just returned from the recording of the BBC Wiltshire Carol Service at the Cathedral, which was most enjoyable. Back in the office before having a drink at St Paul's Club.

The Dog's Trust and Bishop's Politics Society

Before the Panto yesterday, I visited Bishop's Politics Society, where I gave a talk and then held a Q&A session. They were well informed young men & women and certainly kept me on my toes with some testing questions!

Following on from Bishop's, I visited The Dog's Trust in Newton Tony, where I was delighted to have a dog named in my honour. Glen is currently looking for a new home, and you can find out more at The Dog Trust website.

Aladdin at Salisbury Playhouse

Just returned from the wonderful production of Aladdin at Salisbury Playhouse. Best production of Aladdin I've seen!

Maldivian Presidential Visit

I had the pleasure of meeting the President of the Maldives when he visited the Honorary Consulate in Salisbury on Saturday, as part of his tour of England. I was presented with an ornate vase, which I was pleased to accept. I had visited the Maldives through my work with the Westminster Foundation for Democracy and am pleased to be able to continue my relationship with the country.

Santa Fun Run

I was given the honour of starting the Naomi House Santa Fun Run, where participants were able to complete a small run in santa costume. The event was organized by Naomi House as a fundraiser, and I was pleased to do my bit. Unfortunately, due to other commitments I couldn't run, but maybe I will be able to next year!

Bemerton Surgery

Unfortunately, due to the treacherous weather conditions and the Daylight Saving Bill, I have had to cancel my planned surgery for this evening. I have pledged to call those who had an appointment, or offer them another time to see me.

Daylight Savings Bill

Usually I spend my Friday in the constituency, but this week I stayed in Westminster to support Rebecca Harris' Daylight Savings Bill, after I was inundated with constituents supporting it. I'm pleased to say the Bill gained the 100 votes needed, and is now progressing to the Committee stage.

Constituency Day

Met with six constituents this morning in my Brown Street office, before visiting a Amesnury town Councillor.

Office Day

Spent the day in the Constituency Office sorting out all the admin side of things! Managed to fit in a couple of meetings though.

Help for Heroes

Another busy day in the constituency beginning with a interview with BBC South today, and then a trip to Manor Fields Primary School. I was also asked to present Tescos Computers for Schools award at the shop on Southampton Road, before driving through the Woodford Valley , to take part in the Woodford Valley Primary School's Worship.

There was also time to see the Help for Heroes charity before Remembrance Sunday as our thoughts move towards the fallen. The work they do is essential for helping vetrans after they have returned home.

Cathedral School and Surgery

I must begin by thanking Amanda English for the hospitality shown to me by the Catehdral School, on what was a great visit. A lovely school in such beautiful surroundings. After the school I went to the farewell lunch of Sarah Axton, my Private Secretary who left for greater things! Many thanks for all she has done!

I also held a surgery at my constituency office, which as always was well attended and booked up very quickly.

BBC Interview

Just completed my interview with Peter Henley of the BBC for The Politics Show which will be broadcast on Sunday on BBC1. Don't want to say anything about it... You'll just have to watch it!

Wilton Community Centre Open Day

i have spent the day visiting constituents, as well as representatives of the Fire Brigade Union. I managed to fit in a small interview with Spire FM, and then popped in to the Wilton Community Centre open day, which was being held for the installation of the new solar panel system.  

Volunteer Day - Naomi House

Just completed another Volunteer Day, this time helping at Naomi House. I spent the day helping to prepare lunch and got stuck into decorate the house for their Holloween Party, which went brilliantly by all accounts. A big thank you to everyone I met, and keep up the good work.

For those of you who are not aware of teh great work that Naomi House do, check out there website: www.naomihouse.org.uk .

Alderbury Surgery and St. Joseph's Prize-giving

 Another busy week draws to an end! Just today, i have visited the Samaritans, Sudan Link Coffee Morning, Trethowans and held a surgery in Alderbury. To finish the day, I was honoured to give out the prizes at St. Joseph's Prize-giving. Well done to all those who recieved a reward for their hard work.

You can read the Journal's report here. 

Harnham Free Church and Local Hero Awards

A busy past few days for me, as I have rushed around the constituency. The highlights have been Naim Audio, The Ladies Luncheon Group and Riverbourne Community Farm. I also spoke about life as a Christian MP at Harnham Free Church earlier, and have just returned from a very enjoyable evening at the Salisbury Journal Local Hero Awards. Well done to all those who were nominated.

Anne Milton MP visit to Porton Down

Today Anne Milton MP, The Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Public Health, visited Porton Down and I was invited along to join the Ministrial visit. It was an opportrunity to make the Minister aware of the problems arising from the proposed move away from the site; a move that would have a detrimental impact on the community. 

Bishopdown Farm Surgery

I have held my first surgery on Bishopdown Farm this evening, meeting people with a wide range of problems from parking problems through to health issues. I can never promise a perfect result but I will do my best to achieve one. thank you to Cllr Bill Moss and his wife for helping everything to run smoothly.

I also managed to open the Landford meeting room in the Village Hall and now have a plaque on the wall!

Party Conference

I have spent the past couple of days in Birmingham at the Conservative Party Conference. Unfortunately I was so busy with meetings that I didnt get the chance to spend any time listening to the speeches being given in the main hall. It didn't detract from an enjoyable and informative time!

This evening I am heading to Paris to take part in a Franco- British Council Roundtable Defence Debate.

St Martin's Primary School

To begin this month I began by opening St Martin's School's library and then took a tour to see what else the school had to offer. Just like all the other schools in the constituency, it is a great educational institution and I wish it all the best in the future.

Wessex Partnership

To finish off the very busy month I've had, I made sure I finished the month with as much as I could fit in. I began the day by meeting the Wessex Partnership to discuss there plans for the future and how the schools can progress together. It was great to see the Headteachers of the local schools actively working together and discussing the ways to better educate the children of Salisbury. I look forward to attending the next meeting, should my diary permit.

Jo Benson Day Centre

The Jo Benson Day Centre was the setting for my monthly volunteer day. I took part in the quiz and talked to the visitors, as well as a conversation with Lady Jo Benson, who has done a great job with the centre. They even provided me with lunch!

Following on from the Day Centre, I was interviewed for Spire FM and BBC Wiltshire, the two local radio stations, on life as an MP and Defence respectively.

Shrewton Surgery

Held a surgery at Shrewton Recreational Hall (and car park!) where once again I was shown the range of problems constituents face. As always, I will do everything I can to help those who need it. Surgeries are held every two weeks, in various areas of the constituency, and an appointment can be made through my office.

I also fitted in a rewarding meeting with Jane Scott, Leader of Wiltshire Council, and I hope a strong working partnership can be formed.

Shaw Trust, SWAN and Bishop's Prizegiving

Another busy day in the constituency! It began with the Carers Support Coffee Morning held in New Street, followed by a brief meeting with the Shaw Trust at the Portway Centre near Old Sarum. The Women's Refuge was my next port of call where I met the staff and a number of those using their services, all with harrowing backstories, and I will do everything in my power to help them.

This evening I have been to teh SWAN Advocacy's 10th Anniversary Celebration in the vibrant surroundings of Salisbury Arts Centre. Finally, I made it to the Bishop Wordsworth School Prizegiving, where once again I was in attendance with bright young minds of Salisbury. My best wishes for all them for the future.

Solstice Park

Today i visited Solistice park, just outside of Amesbury to meet with the manager of the Holiday Inn situated there, and to attend the unveiling of the White Horse as a Guest of Honour, giving a small speech to the audience. The Horse was designed and built by QuinetiQ apprentices and will add a creative touch to the area.

Naomi House Open Day

Popped into the Naomi House Open Day today for an hour and was treated to a tour and general chat with the staff. It is such an inspirational place! I'm already very much looking forward to my volunteer day on the 29th October. Salisbury doesn't have a hospice for children, although many of the City's children do attend, and therefore I feel that it deserves credit.

Laverstock Schools

Two more school visits today, with the Laverstock schools, St. Edmunds and Wyvern, hosting me for the morning. The future looks promising for both the schools and hopefully the successes they have achieved can be continued. Thank you to Headteachers Jackie Goodall and Chris Tomes for their hospitality.

Bemerton Heath Harlequins FC

Rushing across Salisbury at half-time, I made it to the second half of Bemerton Heath Harlequins match against Moneyfields, with Bemerton ending up 3-1 winners. I was the guest of match sponsor and Labour Councillor, Cllr Ricky Rodgers, who was a very warm host. I wish the Harlequins and Salisbury Rugby all the best for the season.

Salisbury Rugby Club

Just got back from an afternoon of Salisbury sport! My first stop was Salisbury Rugby Club where I watched the first-half of Salisbury's 61-0 thrashing of Frome on the opening day of the league. It was great to see the local team out playing the opposition, with the power of Salisbury's pack staggering and the ability and willingness to run the ball a devastating combination. I left with the score 27-0, so well done to Salisbury for over doubling their lead.

Surgery

I held a Surgery this afternoon at my constituency office in Brown Street. The problems facing many in the constiuency are moving and I will continue to do everything I can to help them.

Connexions

Earlier today I met with Jon Rich from Connexions, to discuss the options that young people in Salisbury could have. They provide a great service and help many of the young people in the area. With unemployment high, it's good to see that people want to learn more and gain more qualifications in order to better themselves. I really did enjoy finding out more about the youth projects that they are undertaking and those planned for the future.

You can see my visit on the Connexions website: http://www.sparksite.co.uk/entries/mp_visit_to_salisbury_youth_development_centre

http://www.sparksite.co.uk/entries/john_glen_mp_visit_vtalent_salisbury_youth_development_centre

NFU and Boscombe Down

This morning I visited Boscombe Down and the team from Qinetic. It is always interesting to see the logistics behind our Armed Forces and I was not disappointed. Being on the House of Commons Select Defence Committee means that these sorts of visits are critical in my work and I loved the chance of seeing the work first hand.

After Qinetic, I met with National Farmers' Union representatives and local farmers, as I continue to back the interests of rural communities. I believe strongly in agriculture and feel that not enough is being done to protect our own farmers from intrusive legislation. With so much bureaucracy surrounding farmers I hope to table a question to the Secretary of State to make things easier for our hard-working farmers.

Griffin School and the Salisbury Playhouse

Another school visit today, just as the schools are starting to go back. Griffin School (for little ones), on the Castle Road, has a lot to offer the community and I wish it every success to the future. After the school, I went to the Salisbury Playhouse and met the Executive Director and the leadership team, and I'm pleased to see this centre of culture for Salisbury is doing well, and I will endeavour to support it as much as I can as the spending round discussions conclude. A letter to the Arts Council and Secretary of State will be going out shortly! The shows I have seen there have been great, and I am sure the standard will be maintained....

Friend's Provident, Odstock Medical Ltd and Sarum Academy

Since recess was called I have been spending most of my time in the constituency and today was no different. I spent the morning at Friend's Provident, discussing their plans for the future and as one of the city's main employers it was well worth finding out more about the issues facing their business. I was pleased to hear they are doing well and the Salisbury office seems to be very much part of their long term plans.

I then went on to the Salisbury District Hospital to visit Odstock Medical Ltd. I  was used as a dummy to show the procedures they carry out to assist MS sufferers. It was great to be involved and gave me a greater understanding of what goes on. As ever, I feel the vital work of developing new devices is critical. A letter to the Dept for Business will be sent to try and iron out some issues the management are facing. I also met with a number of constituents about Equitable Life, a problem that many people in the constituency are facing. I will continue to fight for the right amount of compensation and make representations on their behalf.

Sarum Academy was next port of call, with an introduction to their new principal, Ruth Johnson, giving me a tour. I look forward to seeing which direction she takes the school and wish the school, Ruth and the staff all the best for the future. A letter and another conversation with Michael Gove to reinforce the need for proper funding to replace the failing buildings will be a priority. From there I went on to the South Newton & Stoford Parish Council meeting to hear ongoing concerns about the A36 - more work to try and persuade the Highways Agency that more needs to be done will be my challenge next week.

Trussell Trust Volunteering Day

Today was the first of my monthly volunteer days, with the first charity being the Trussell Trust. I was worked hard, moving wool bales about, and I must admit I reckon I'll sleep well. But it was a pleasure to help the charity and those that are involved with its work, as well as the rewarding feeling of giving something back to the community ( in a small way compared to the regular volunteers)