Getting out and about in this most special of constituencies

It is an honour to represent a constituency as wonderful as mine, and spending time meeting businesses, chatting to residents and popping into our fantastic community organisations only confirms what an amazing place Durham is. And it serves as a great reminder – as if one were needed – as to how lucky I am to represent it.

This year has been no different, with me taking the opportunity to spend quality time in Durham. I was delighted to pop into Ushaw College again and remind myself of what a wonderful asset it is. While there, I also took part in a discussion about the Labour government’s ten-year plan for the NHS, and the challenges and opportunities this offers Primary Care practitioners. I’ll look forward to heading to Crook Hall and Gardens next week, a glorious spot in our city – as well as parks which are tended by community groups.

And of course, I’m using this time to speak to some of our fantastic businesses and organisations, such as Quarry Tea House in Hunwick, Wheels2Work County Durham, along with Ace Motorcycles in Belmont, and the fantastic Tias Mexican in Durham. I’ll spend time with some of the many youth groups and try out the wellness activities available to residents in areas like Esh Winning too.

But it also gives me a chance to catch up with some of the issues in Durham as well. Recently I visited retailers on North Road in the city centre, to discuss their issues with anti-social behaviour, as well as dropping into the local ShopWatch meeting. I also got the chance to chat to Durham United FC about the issues they’re facing as a grassroots football club. I’m hoping to catch up with more clubs soon, and keep an eye out for my online survey on this subject.

And of course, now my office move is pretty much complete, the recess allows me to spend more time in the fabulous Redhills Durham Miners’ Hall, where I’m once again based. The work that has gone into this hugely important building is simply breathtaking, and it has already been used for conferences and as part of Durham’s Brass Festival.

More than just a building, this project serves as a timely reminder of our regional history. A place bult by working people for working people, and rooted in the ideas of collective action, support and dignity. It is an incredible building – set in beautiful grounds – right in the heart of the city. Excitingly, later on in the year, the building will be opening for tours. If you haven’t seen it before – and even if you have – I would urge you to get booked on a tour as soon as you can.

Getting out and about in our villages, communities and city never fails to reinvigorate me and remind me why Durham is so special. From our heritage and history to our strong communities, I believe this is the most special constituency in the country.