Friday was a typically busy day out and about locally. Parliamentary debate is important, but a day packed full of constituency engagements is the most energising aspect of my job as an MP.

I began with meetings in my Hyde Town Hall office, first with a constituent with some moving casework, and next with the Consul General of Ireland, Sarah Mangan. There is an increasing diplomatic presence in Greater Manchester which is great to see, and we had a wide-ranging discussion about shared interests. I also met with councillors and residents on local planning issues. It’s important we build more homes but it is so important we get it right.

Then it was off to Newton to blow off the cobwebs joining the opening of a new Litter Hub at St Mary’s Church. Volunteers, local councillors, and the wonderful children from Bradley Green Primary School came out to help pick up litter and talk to residents. I was happy to present the kids with Litter Hub badges. Cllr Hugh Roderick is St Mary’s Litter Hub champion, supporting groups in the community to run litter picks. If you’d like to set one up to take pride in your area, get in touch.

My next appointment was a firm favourite, checking in with the fabulous Eco Club at Gorse Hall Primary School, Stalybridge. I’ve been visiting them and learning about their work for over a decade. The children never cease to amaze me with their passion to change the world. This time I heard the choir, learnt about their 2024 priorities, got taught to stitch, and officially opened their new pond. The feeling of community, character-building and citizenship in this school is just magical.

Next it was off to Hattersley where I was so proud to officially open RSK Group’s new Science and Technology Park. This is a brilliant company that has relocated businesses from Manchester city centre to Tameside, bringing over 200 jobs with them. This is an exciting development for our area, with more planned in future. Please look them up online to find out more and see if there is an opportunity for you.

Finally, in Hyde Town Hall, I held a busy advice surgery. It’s always lovely to talk with residents but often hard to hear the frustrating issues they are experiencing, from housing problems to social care challenges to antisocial behaviour and more. If me and my brilliant team can help just a little bit as people try to navigate complex systems and access the support they need, then that’s a good day.