The end of the year is looking pretty wet and windy which might delay all those New Year fitness resolutions somewhat.

However, I was very pleased to hear between Christmas and New Year that the Department for Culture, Media and Sport has awarded a grant to the Freedom Church Romsey as part of the Community Organisations Cost of Living Fund.

They do great work locally and it has always been a pleasure to meet their volunteers, so this grant will be very welcome news to them.

Last weekend's YFC Tractor Run added a bit of festive excitement to the towns and villages around and there was a big turnout of residents to see them go past. I can honestly say the bacon roll at the West Dean Club at the end of the run was some of the nicest bacon I have ever had, hitting home the buy local message very effectively.

There is a debate in Parliament at the start of the year on the Groceries Supply Code of Practice which I hope to get to, in order to emphasise the importance of food security. 

As we all begin to take the Christmas decorations down just a quick reminder that TVBC once again has temporary recycling sites for real Christmas trees.  They are open from 30th December at Alma Road Car Park, Knightwood Leisure Centre, B&Q at Nursling, Wellow Village Hall and Hillier Garden Centre at Braishfield.  

Rt Hon Caroline Nokes MP

Chair of the Women and Equalities Committee