James Wharton MP

Last night I visited the youth club in Fairfield. This is a great facility, well looked after by volunteers and run as a charity. There were quite a few young people there last night and I understand it gets even busier at peak times.

It is a fine example of volunteers working to put something back into their community.

Oer the weekend I was out canvassing in Stockton with local volunteers.  The response was extremely positive and reassuring.  With the election now just round the corner there will be a lot more activity like this, meeting local people and discussing their concerns.  In addition I have accepted invitations to quite a large number of public debates, including at Schools and Colleges and with the FSB.  It is going to be an exciting and busy time over the coming month or so!

Last night I attended the Tees Valley Business Awards.  It was a superb event, showcasing some of our best local businesses, both large and small.

Well done to all those who were successful, both as overall winners and finalists.

I had a productive meeting with Ross Smith and Joanne Fryett of the North East Chamber of Commerce this morning.  We discussed a number of issues and some of the plans which Conservatives have for the future of our lcoal economy.

There are now probably only a few weeks to go until Gordon Brown calls the general election.  I spent the weekend campaigning in Stockton, Yarm and Eaglescliffe with some of our local team.  As we approach the election it is likely all sorts of other parties and groups will be delivering leaflets and newsletters, trying to catch the public’s attention.  Unlike the others local Conservatives have been here all year round and do not just turn up at election time.