It’s been an action packed year in politics and Taunton Deane including an election in which I was honoured to be re-elected with an increased majority. Nationally the Brexit debate has dominated and I’m pleased progress in being made; locally my focus is always to work to improve the lives of everyone whether feeding in concerns leading to a better functioning Universal Credit system for those who need it; attracting fairer funding for our deserving schools or engaging to attract £300m for infrastructure projects that will enable business to thrive, ultimately delivering more and better paid jobs to benefit many. Attracting Garden Town status for Taunton was a major success, putting place making at the heart of our growing communities and influencing Government to make the environment and animal welfare a central plank of policy was something I am really proud of.

As I wish you a Happy Christmas and the best for the New Year rest assured I realise there is always more to do and I’m pressing for more police and public sector support, upping the arts/cultural offer locally, progressing the Wellington Rail station and Wellington Monument restoration and pushing for new operating theatres at Musgrove Hospital. Here’s also to peace and respect for one another in 2018.