Last week I travelled to Westminster and went straight to an event campaigning for our seas to be cleaned up. The behaviour of the water companies is still not up to standard and I will continue to argue for tougher penalties for bosses. I also met with Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire, to discuss the issues constituents have raised with me about combatting issues such as anti-social behaviour.  

I attended a meeting with the Environment Agency where I discussed the ongoing problems with the Jameson Road landfill site. Their continuing monitoring of the site is welcome. I will be working with other MPs who have similar problems in their constituencies to fight for tougher regulation of problem sites. I encourage all residents to continue to report odour issues to the Environment Agency’s hotline 0800 80 70 60.  

On Thursday morning I was in the House of Commons to ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is being done to improve transport connections into Thornton and Fleetwood – and especially to continue looking at a possible rail link. I will be having a meeting with the minister to discuss this further, and will keep residents updated on progress. 

Friday was a quiet one in the constituency this week. I had a meeting with the police in the early afternoon and a few personal appointments as well. One of the things I have found hardest is finding the time to do the things you would normally do on a weekend that I used to take for granted! 

On Saturday I met with the Blackpool Labour group of councillors. It is really important to me that I work hand in hand with councillors in my constituency (of all political persuasions). I can deliver the best results for residents if I am in regular contact with local councillors and we often have shared interests.  

After that I went to a Christmas switch-on in Cleveleys. Those who know me know that Christmas is one of my favourite times of year and despite the weather I wanted to be there to support the event. It was also lovely to meet Russell Grant, especially considering this was his first public engagement since an operation on a brain tumour 2 years ago. I wish him all the best with his continued recovery. Special thanks to the Care for Cleveleys group for organising this wonderful event!