I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone in Aldridge-Brownhills constituency a Happy New Year.
2015 was a big year in many ways and not least in politics, when back in May the country faced a clear choice at the polls. Across the country people resoundingly chose to support a party that pledged to build a better future for people of all ages.
On a personal level, I feel privileged to have been elected to serve this constituency and remain committed to doing all I can to represent everyone in Aldridge-Brownhills in all of our communities, including Streetly, Pelsall, Rushall, Shelfield, High Heath and Walsall Wood too.
2015 was a year that brought the dangers we face at home and abroad into much sharper focus. The terrible and despicable events in Paris highlighted this threat even more, and brought with it the reminder to us all that the first duty of any Government is to protect its country and its citizens.
I know that we recognize and appreciate the service and dedication of our Armed Forces and the security services, and we are reminded of the brave work of the men and women, and sacrifices they make on a daily basis to keep us safe and secure.
Over Christmas and New Year we saw and read about households, families and businesses affected by severe and continuous downpour of rains in Yorkshire and the North West. Although we are fortunate in this constituency not to be among those directly affected, many will have families and friends who have suffered badly. Many more could not fail to be touched by these dreadful events, and we have seen examples of community spirit coming together to assist, including locally in Pelsall where practical assistance in the form of a collection of cleaning materials, is being led by Councillor Garry Perry.
Once again, we are reminded of the incredible work of our uniform and emergency services, local police, fire and ambulance services, some of whom often deploy to other areas to assist in times of need. Our doctors and our nurses too who work throughout the year. The dedication and public service they provide truly deserves our thanks and appreciation.
Looking to 2016 I am sure there will be many challenges ahead. However we have a Government committed to overcoming these, whilst also ensuring the economic recovery of the country continues, as well as providing opportunity and security for all.
I will continue to progress my Private Members Bill to help Great Ormond Street Childrens Hospital Charity, and work hard to serve all my constituents and communities.
Parliament resumes on January 5th and my first constituency surgery for 2016 will be held in Aldridge on January 8th. If there is anything I can help with or if you wish to make an appointment please get in touch either by emailing me at wendy.morton.mp@parliament.uk or by calling my team on 01922 452228.