As the year draws to an end, I approach it full of gratitude for what it has entailed and the people I have met as the Member of Parliament for our most beautiful constituency of South Shropshire. It has been a great pleasure to visit many schools, churches, charities, businesses, and other organisations in South Shropshire. I hope to continue to do so in the new year.
In December, my advice surgeries returned to Ludlow. This marked my 53rd surgery appointment. My team and I have been touring South Shropshire since my election in July, so we can meet you in your neighbourhood and listen to your concerns and hopes for the future. I have responded to more than 3,000 cases spanning areas as diverse as health, education, and housing. It is a huge privilege to help fellow residents in South Shropshire. I will continue to do so. My regular newsletter is also received by over 2,500 people - keeping them updated on my work. You can sign up via my website.
My annual report, which has now been published on my website, documents the great progress that we have made so far in South Shropshire since my election. This includes a major victory, having secured £312 million for the Hospital Transformation Programme. With strong local support, we have successfully also prevented the closure of the recycling centres in Craven Arms and Bridgnorth. In addition, we have also ensured that Post Office services in Clunton and Clunbury have remained open.
Farmers are the backbone of our rural communities. Yet, they are facing immense pressure. They have just faced one of the worst harvests on record. Planned reduction in the level of inheritance tax relief worsens this crisis. I have spoken about the need to support our farmers in Parliament and have raised the issue at every possible opportunity. A petition against the Family Farm Tax has gained 796 signatures from South Shropshire alone, demonstrating the strength of local support.
Since my election, I have also focused on efforts to reduce rural crime, increase road safety on our country roads, boost flooding prevention and recovery support, and expand train services serving the area.
This is all part of my plan to make South Shropshire a better place to live, work, and visit. An integral element of this is to unlock the potential of our rural economy. This will help to unleash rural prosperity, delivering the jobs and opportunities that help local people achieve their full potential. I will have much more to say on this in the new year. In the meantime, may I take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a very happy Christmas and all of the very best for 2025
