In this section
- Section Home

RSS Feeds

- News RSS
- Blog RSS
- Gallery RSS

Andrew Bingham's Blog

Welcome to my blog. The blog has been running for some time, but now I have been elected as the High Peak MP I will use it to try and convey what its like during the frenetic few days and weeks ahead as I start learning what being the MP is like. The updates may be a bit erratic but I will do them as and when I get the opportunity.

Andrew Bingham 

BLOG TO START SOON

A blog of my activities will start soon. I will update this regularly as I continue my work as Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for the High Peak 

MATERNITY & CHILDRENS SERVICE MEETING #1

I attended the PCT's consultation meeting over the changes proposed to Maternity & Childrens services for the North West. Dr. Bruce Laurence explained how these changes would affect residents from the High Peak. I was disappointed that there werent more people there, but those who did attend, expressed their views well. I was accomapnied by Borough Councillor John Faulkner

MATERNITY & CHILDRENS SERVICE MEETING #2

I was invited to attend the  meeting called by concerned residents of the Buxton & Central areas. They see that the favoured option A would result in the loss of facilites in neighbouring Macclesfield. I questioned the local MP over his support for this option, and asked him to change his mind and support the proposition made by High Peak Borough Council calling for the favoured Option A with the ADDITION of Macclesfield being retained. I along with other Members of HPBC guided this through the Council's Select Committe system. As the Chairman of the Social Inclusion Select Committee I explained it in detail to the committee to enable it to make its recommendation to the Executive Member.

WORKING WITH THE YOUNG

I attended a Peak 11 event in Glossop. Along with fellow Conservative Councillor Jean Wharmby and County Councillor George Wharmby I spent the day at the Glossop Community College on hand to answer questions from young people about what services are availabel for them. As part of the Group on HPBC working on a play strategy it was interesting to hear their thoughts and comments.

MEET WITH DERBYSHIRE CHIEF CONSTABLE

I accompanied Conservative MP's Patrick McLoughlin and Nick Herbert to a meeting with David Coleman. We had a long discussion around the Governments proposed mergers of local forces into an East Midlands regional force.

MEETING AT THE PCT

Whilst the Minor Injuries Unit in Bxton remains closed in the evenings and the PCT face further pressure on their budget, I was invted to meet with Dianne Jeffrey (Chairman) and Neil Swanwick (Chief Excutive, High Peak and Dales PCT) to dicsus the problems they face. We had a long discussion and covered a wide range of problems that they face as they continue to wrestle with their budget. I urged them again to make the re opening of the MIU at Buxton one of their main priorities

DEVELOPMENT PLAN MEETING

I chair the Development Plan Select Committee of High Peak Borough Council. This committee looks at the long term planning strategy for the High Peak and its different areas.

FULL & ANNUAL COUNCIL MEETINGS

Two meetings of the full council in one evening. A discussion takes place over a motion concerning the proposed Police restructures. I propose an amendment that provokes a long and constructive debate. The whole Council supports my amendment after a couple of minor changes have been made. Yet again we have opposed the Governments' proposals to get rid of the Derbyshire Constabulary in favour of an East Midlands Regional super force. I hope that they will listen ! Who knows, a change of Home Secretary may force a change of heart. 

WARD ISSUE

I meet with Council officials as I try to resolve an issue in my coiuncil Ward. This work is the most important of any day.

GREAT NEWS FOR GLOSSOP

I am delighted to hear that the new PCT arrangments for Derbyshire are what I have been advocatin. The most important thing is that Glossop will not be consumed into a Derbyshire wide PCT , it will retain its relationship with Tameside. Backed my colleague Jean Wharmby I had proposed this to a full meeting of HPBC and received backing from all Members. It was very disappointing that Derbyshire County Council had not agreed with us, instead preferring to express their support for Glossop going in with the whole of Derbyshire. Cty.Cllr. George Wharmby was the lone voice amongst Glossop Coutny Councillors to stand up against this recommendation.

IN THE KITCHEN

I volunteer once a week to help in the Pepperpot Cafe in Fairfield. It is a community cafe that is very popular and they were short of helpers. I enjoy my monthly stint and can recommend it to all

FAIRFIELD OLDER PERSONS GROUP

Providing a real community service, this Group helps people in Fairfield to get to the Post Office every Thursday. Since the closure of the Fairfield Post Office they struggle to get to an alternative. Following their trip they get together in Fairfield and have quizzes and bingo. The organiser Cathy Ayrton has asked me along, I have agreed to help where I can. My first task is to provide a  quiz for them all. Watch this space for more details.

CONSERVATIVE FUTURE

I have a meeting to discuss a major event for young people in the High Peak that I am trying to organise - watch this space. Its early days.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Along with my Conservative colleague, County Councillor Robin Baldry, I attend a Q&A session for Buxton Conservative members. They asked many questions about the party and the present Governments difficulties.

DAYS AWAY

Take the opportunity to have a few days away to celebrate my 20th wedding anniversary. Margaret Beckett isnt the only one who enjoys caravans !

CUMBRIA

When I see the Lake District in the sunshine it is difficult to know why any of us go abroad for our holidays. As I walk round Whitehaven I note the regeneration work that has been done around the Marina and how it enhances the town. With a bustling market and friendly people and the views across to the Isle of Man it is very pleasant

LONDON

My monthly trip to London to meet with the other selected Conservative Candidates across the Country. We discuss Police mergers and how there is a large ground swell of opinion against this policy. I tell my colleagues that as far as I can establish, the only person in the High Peak in favour of the merger is the local MP.

SELECT COMMITTEE MEETING

The Social Inclusion Select Committee of High Peak Borough Council meets. I am the present Chairman, but tonights meeting elects the Chairman for the ensuing year. I am delighted to be elected unanimously. The meeting goes on to discuss several things but the main topics are the review of housing allocation policy and the success of the Council in bidding for housing related funding.

PEPPERPOT CAFE

I am a volunteer worker in the Pepperpot Cafe in Fairfield. I work there from 9am - 2pm about once a month washign the pots and helping generally around the kitchen. It is a very busy little community cafe and the meals are extremely reasonably priced.

PLANNING ISSUES

I have an early meeting with my County Council Colleague, Cllr. Robin Baldry to look at a planning issue in Buxton. He has been asked by a resident on Brown Edge Road and we have a long dicussion about the application and its merits.

GORDON BROWN - TAX, TAX, TAX,

The news that Gordon Brown is on course to implement 100 tax rises before the end of this Parliament may shock many people. It was 66 prior to the last Election, and it is now obvious that he intends to continue in this vein.

TENANTS CONFERENCE

The second Tenants conference hosted by High Peak Community Housing. I joined the Board of HPCH last year and it provides me with a good insight into the challenges faced by the High Peak in helping our residents find homes to live. The Conference was well attended by many tenants and I listened to lots of their concerns around housing matters.

RESIDENTS MEETING

Following representations received by residents on my Council Ward , Chapel West concerning netting at Chapel Cricket Club, I arranged a meeting between all interested parties to try and come to an amicable arrangement. I hope that the meeting has fulfilled the purpose as all sides got together and a compromise solution was reached.

LIBERATION DAY

A huge event for older people. Held in the Octagon in Buxton, I volunteered to man the stand for the Fairfield Older Persons Group. This group help pensioners in the Farifield area who may be struggling following the closure of the Fairfield Post Office. Several people express surprise to see me there, but as I explain to them, I am happy to help and support local groups wherever I can and whenever I can. (Pictured on the Fairfield Older Persons Stand)

TAPAS LUNCH

The High Peak Conservatives have a wide and varied programme of social events for all ages. The Tapas lunch organised by the Buxton West Branch of the Association was an excellent event thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended. The full programme of our events can be seen by clicking on the events tab on this website. (Cllr. Robin Baldry acting as quizmaster at the Buxton West Tapas lunch)

THINGS FOR THE YOUNG

I am Chairman of a special group set up within High Peak Borough Council to look at what is provided for young people to do across the Borough. We are hoping that when we have this, we can then develop a strategy for more provision, and in turn this strategy will enable the Council to attract more outside funding to make this dream a reality. I view this as one of the most important sub groups within HPBC at the moment.

DEVELOPMENT PLAN COMMITTEE

I have been re elected as the Chairman of the Development Plan Select Committee of the Council. This committee looks at the long term planning view for the High Peak. Tonights agenda discussed at length the Housing Restraint policy. this is crucial as it deals with the present moratorium on house building in the central area. The document will now be going out for public consultation. I urge you to have your say.

PLEA TO HOME SECRETARY DIRECT

As the local MP will not stand up for us on the issue of Police Mergers I have written directly to the Home Secretary aking him to reconsider these proposals as they are unsuitable for us all here in the High Peak

HOUSING ALLOCATION

After sevreal years of work the Housing Allocation sub committee of HPBC which I chair, has given its final agreement to the new Choice Based Letting policy which will be used in the allocation of Council properties. This will now be ratified by the Executive at their July meeting. It will be a radical departure from the existing ways in which Council houses are allocated. HPBC will be releasing more details very soon  

DID MY LETTER WORK ??

I wonder? Home Secretary, John Reid has announced that the proposed Police mergers will be delayed. Did my letter only 10 days ago play a part? I will never know. It still is not enough - they shouldnt be delayed - they should be SCRAPPED !!

THE CRESCENT

I have accepted an invitation to all Borough Councillors to tour the Crescent in Buxton. Its a crying shame when you see inside the building at the condition of certain parts of it. We are given a full explanation of the plans for its re development. When its finished it will be a tremendous asset to the whole area.

BUXTON AREA FORUM - PARKING

The latest round of Area Forums are underway, and the subject for the Buxton Forum is parking in the town. Followoing a presentation of a recetn study undertaken, there follows a lively debate, with people being given the opportunity to air their views and give their opinions as to a solution for this growing problem. The one thing that everyone is agreed on is that there is not an easy soution.

HIGH PEAK COMMUNITY HOUSING

The annual training for the Board members of High Peak Communtiy Housing takes place over two days, today and Saturday. As HPCH continues its work to meet the Decent Homes Standard ahead of schedule it is important that, as Board members we evaluate how well the company is doing, particualrly in the light of some well publicised recent problems with contractors, which we hope are now resolved. 

CENTRAL AREA IMPROVEMENTS

I meet with Council officials and we look at some improvements that we can make around the Central area of the Borough with the Area Forums budget. Whilst it is not a huge amount of money, I want to try and ensure that the Council gets the best value for its money. Seen here presenting a cheuqe for £500 to Hayfield Cricket Club for security improvements. Accomapnied by Cllr. T. Ashton (top right), Councillor for Sett Ward.

FAIRFIELD OLDER PERSONS GROUP

I try to assist Cathy Ayrton from Age Concern with the Fairfield Older Persons Group on a Thursday. This week I have been asked to speak to them about what its like to stand at a General Election. I talk them through the whole process from getting involved in local Politics to the excitement of the Election Day itself. (A full explanation of an Election Day from the perspective of a Candidate can be found in 'A Day in the Life', copies of which are available on request from our offices free of charge). The ladies and gentlemen present ask lots of questions, and I in turn learn a lot from them.

POLICE MERGERS - OFF ??

The political rumour mill is in full swing as it appears that the Government are going to change their minds on Police mergers. I hope so, they were never going to work.

GOVERNMENT U TURN

After lots of work by many people the Government appear to have begrudgingly admitted that Police mergers are not the way forward and have withdrawn the enforced mergers. I am delighted. I wonder what Mr. Levitts thoughts are as he has long championed the mergers

PENSIONS MEETING

We have organised a pubilc meeting on the subect of pensions and the way forward. Despite it being a hot evening we get a good attendance and some fairly radical thoughts are put forward. These thoughts will be fed into the heart of the Party's policy making department. 

CENTRAL AREA FORUM

I have been re elected as the Chairman of the Councils Central Area Forum. The forum meets four times a year along with other Forums across the Borough. I have chaired the Central FOrum for the last year and am delighted to do it for the next 12 months. It is an opportuinty for people to come along and have their say on the chosen topic. This months is youth provision. I am slightly disappointed that more members of the public dotn attend, although it is a very hot evening again.

FOOD HALL PUBLIC MEETING

The Council has organised a public meeting to discuss proposals received from Emda to convert the Pavilion Gardens into a regional food hall. There is a strong opposition to it. As I listen to the arguments, I also have grave reservations over the schemes viability and the effect it will have on the Pavilion Gardens and the wide raneg of other uses that it is put to presently. I feel that the whole future of the Gardens need further study before any decisions are taken.

HAYFIELD CRICKET CLUB

As the Chairman of the Central Area Forum, I have the pleasant duty of presenting a cheque for £500 to Hayfield CC for security improvements to the ground. The Club provides a great outlet for local youngsters to get involved with the game. As a lifelong cricket fan, I am especially pleased to present the cheque. I am accompanied by my Conservative colleague, Cllr. Tony Ashton and Independant Councillor, David Mellor.

FAMILY FUN DAY

We hold a Family Fun Day for people to attend with their whole family. The weather continues in its present hot form and lots of people have a lot of fun. There is a BBQ, face painting, bouncing castle and tombola.

FOOD HALL - LETS LOOK AGAIN

Meeting with my Conservative colleagues on High Peak Borugh Council, Cllrs. Ashton & Pearson, we are united in our resolve to look deeper into the Food Hall proposals for the Pavilion Gardens. The issue is not as cut and dried as it may appear, and we all want the chance to do further work on it before any decisions are made.

DEREK UDALE - MAYOR OF HIGH PEAK

We attend the civic service for my Conservative colleague Derek Udale, who is the Myor of the High Peak. After three years as Deputy, Derek fully deserves this honour.

MANOR PARK GATES

After several months of work and consultation, my planning application to restore new gates to Manor Park is before the Development Control Committee of High Peak Borough Council this evening. I intend to address the committee and explain to them what the gates will mean to the people of Glossop

GATES APPROVED !!

The new Manor Park Gates have come a step closer following the approval of my planning permission at last nights meeting. There was some debate around the actual siting of the Gates, but this can be addressed as a minor amendment under the present planning consent.

MANOR PARK GATES - WHERE SHOULD THEY GO ?

Following the granting of permission for the new gates a debate has ensued as to where exactly they should be situated. There are two options - either in the gateway itself or further back past the lodge. E mail me your thoughts please to hpca@tory.org

VIEW THE GATES PLANS THIS SATURDAY AT MANOR PARK

I will be at Manor Park this saturday between 10am & 11am with the drawings and plans for the new gates so that people can tell me exactly where the gates should be situated. Please come along and tell me your thoughts

MANOR PARK GATES - THE NEXT STEP

A lot of people spoke to me today whilst at Manor Park and the resounding opinion is that the Gates should be sited in the actual entrance to the Park and not further back as originally requested by the Friends of Manor Park. This does however give me a problem as by doing that will prevent any pedestrian access at this point when the gates are closed. I will go back to the engineers to see if we can work a solution out. Watch this space for further news !

CHERYL GILLAN VISITS HIGH PEAK

Accompanied by the Shadow Secretary of State for Wales, Cheryl Gillan, I visited local farmers and associated industries to discuss the impact of Government policies on their ability to farm the land and earn a living from it. Cheryl and I both found the visits we made very informative and it brought home to us the struggles that the farming industry is having just to survive.

FOOTBALL COACHING

The Borough Council's programme of free football coaching is in full swing. I and my fellow Councillor Chris Pearson attended the session in Chapel. Mark Cox from Stoke City who was taking the session said he was impressed with the skills of the players. I am accompanied by Cllr. Chris Pearson and one of the budding footballers, Tom Goss

POLITICS IS GOOD FOR YOUR OLD AGE

I attend the 90th birthday of one of our Members. Vi Parker of Chinley has been a stalwart of the Assocaiton for many years, and has worked on countless General Election campaigns.

COUNCILLORS

After a few days holiday in Blackpool, its back into the swing of things. The Conservative Councillors meet to discuss, amongst other things the proposals for a Food Hall in the Pavilion Gardens in Buxton. We talk long and hard about the pros and cons of what is a crucial part of Buxton and the High Peak. 

CASE WORK & COUNCIL

It amazes me how much case work comes in during jusst a few days holiday. As I continue to work my way through it, the pile lessens. In the evening I Chair the Development Plan Select Committee of HPBC where we discuss the vision for the High Peak in planning terms over the next few years

FOOD HALL

The Conservatuive Councillors meet again to discuss the present EMDA proposals to turn the Pavilion Gardens into a Food Hall. After much discussion and debate, the Group decide that the present proposals are unaccceptable, both to us as a Group, and also to the area as a whole. (See the news pages)

HIGH PEAK COMMUNITY HOUSING

Following the August break, the Board reconvene. In a similar way to my own holiday, the business has piled up and the meeting lasts well into the night. The Councils housing in the High Peak is managed by HPCH and as such these meetings are very important as we strive to meet the Governments decent homes targets ahead of schedule  

FULL COUNCIL

The meeting of the full Council of HPBC goes smoothly with a fairly short Agenda with little controversial discussed.

CENTRAL AREA FORUM

I Chair the latest Central Area Forum meeting, this time in New Mills. The Chief Executive of HPBC, Peter Sloman give a presentation on the Clean Neighbourhood Act. Following this I present on the Councils Cleaner, Greener, Safer policy and where the Central Area Forums budget has been spent this year in pursuit of these aims. Football coaching, plantings and signage are just three things that have been done with the money this year. We thenivite Members of the public for their thoughts on where we should spend any future monies.

RADIO 5 LIVE

Having just arrived in Blackpool for a few days holiday, I am called back to do a live phone in on National Radio 5 Live on the late night Saturday show. The phone in runs from 10pm - 11pm. It feels like a baptism of fire, but I hope I have got my points across. Please dont hesitate to call me on 01298 22521 if you heard the show and wish to comment.

YOUTH STUDY GROUP

A meeting of the Councils sub group looking at provision for young people. I think this is a very important item for the Council and the slow pace of progress is frustrating me, however we need to get it right.

A TASTE OF ITALY

My local Branch of High Peak Conservatives in Chapel has organised an evening at Coco's restaurant in Chapel. They provide us with numerous different courses and samples of Italian food. The night is a great success, and goes to show that politics can be fun as well as serious. Its an example of the great social side that runs within the High Peak Conservatives for the benefit of the Members and their friends 

EUROPE COMES TO HIGH PEAK

The first sign of winter is when the Buxton Conservatives Coffee Club swings back into action. Meeting at the end of each month at the Old Hall Hotel (see the events page on this website), they have a wide rage of speakers from poltical and non political areas. The first speaker this year is the assistant to one of our MEP's Roger Helmer, Emma McClarkin. Emma tells the audience of how she came to work in Brussels, and her life their as she helps Roger in his work representing the East Midlands. Emmas talk is fascinating asnd provkes plenty of discussions and questions afterwards.

CONFERENCE 2006

In Bournemouth for the 2006 Conservative Party Conference. The Conference itself actually starts tomorrow, so I have the day to myself. Bournemouth is sunny and a very pleasant place to spend a day. As the day progresses, I can see delegates beginning to arrive. I am looking forward to meeting up with fellow candidates and many other friends within the Party

CONFERENCE - DAY 1

The Conference starts in earnest and its a whirl of meetings, discussions and fringe events. I always plan well ahead to ensure that i dont miss any fringe events of debates that concern issues affecting the High Peak.

CONFERENCE DAY 2 (CHRISTMAS EVE!)

At the Conference there are more interesting dicsussions and meetings. Things in the hotel take a bizzare twist. Apparently I am booked in on their 'Tinsel & Turkey' special. This entails the hotel recreating Christmas in real time for all their guests. I seem to be the only Conference delegate at the hotel. Further enquiries reveal that the hotel is owned by a coach company who specialise in coach holidays and this is the season for Christmas breaks. That means today is designated Chritstmas Eve !! The evening meal menu has Christmas Eve emblazoned across it and the food has a festive edge to it. I think I will devote my blog to the Christmas aspect of my hotel as the Conference will be well reported elsewhere

CHRISTMAS DAY !

Merry Christmas is the cry that resounds around the hotel. The menu for the evening meal is full Christmas Dinner and the hotel is full of festive spirit. Meanwhile at the Conference, word seems to have got out about my hotel, and people who see me are wishing em a Merry Christmas and shaking my hand at every turn ! The whole situation is becoming the subject of much mirth and merriment amongst my fellow delegates. I have even been offered some mince pies !

BOXING DAY !

The hotel is a lot quieter in keeping with true Boxing Day style. All I am missing is a hand knitted jumper so often seen in houses up and down the country on Boxing Day.

HIGH PEAK RADIO / FOOD HALL / BBC-4

I speak on High Peak Radio about the Conference. I relate to the listeners what a happy and optimistic conference it was. I cant remember such an upbeat conference for many years.

CATCHING UP

Several days in Bournemouth mean that I have plenty of work to catch up on. I visit several people within my Council ward who have issues that they want me to look at

MORE FOOD HALL

EMDA do further presentations open to all Members of the Council. I and some of my Conservative colleagues insisted that all the Members had this opportunity. I am disappointed to see that many Councillors from other Groups failed to take this chance. Yet again my views are reinforced. The proposals are flawed and the idea will not work. I also believe it is not what the town wants !

LOCAL DEMOCRACY WEEK

At this time of year the Council always asks for Councillors to go into the local schools to speak to students about local democracy. Today we go through the exercises that we will be doing with the students across the High Peak over the next week

LOCAL DEMOCRACY WEEK IN FULL SWING

A week of visiting local schools and explaining to students all about local democracy and how it al works. As ever I am always impressed with how interested young people are in political issues. I think it is the Party politics that they seemd turned off by. However after several school visits this week, I feel that it has been as much as a benfit to me as it has to the students

MAYORAL RECEPTION

The annual Mayoral Reception is a chance for the Councillors of all Parties to support the Mayor and to get together outside the heat of the Council Chamber. Thsi years mayor, is my friend and Conservative colleague Derek Udale. It has been a long time coming for Derek having served as Deputy mayor for the last three years. The Pavilion Gardens provide an excellent meal and Derekis well supported by many Councillors

DERBY UNIVERSITY

I am honoured to be asked to the first prize giving ceremony of the Buxton Campus of the University of Derby. It is a fabulous occasion as we parade through the streets for a church service. We then return to the Dome for the prize giving. As an ex student of what was the the High Peak College of Further Education, I am delighted to not only meet many local people but also to run into a coupld of my old lecturers from thos days.

FRIENDS OF THE EARTH

I have been invited to address the High Peak Friends of the Earth meeting. I talk to them about the Conservative party's wish to have a new climate change bill included on the Queens speech. Only this lunchtime, David Cameron has questioned the Prime Minister as the whether he will include such a bill. A request that he declined to answer. The FOE group raise many issues as I go through our thinking on climate change. They are very committed to the ideals and whilst we agree of many things there are other points that they make which I had not considered, this gives me more food for thought.

MORE MISERY FOR FARMERS

I have always tried to operate an 'open door' policy where people can always contact me direct with their problems and issues. Consequently I visit many different people from different walks of life. Today it is farming as I visit a farmimg family in Birch Vale. We discuss lots of their problems, over the course of my visit not leats the scandal of the Single Farm Payment scheme that has been so badly managed by the Government that not only are there farmers on the brink of bankruptcy, the rest of us will also have to foot part of the bill as the Governments incompetence has landed us all with a £130,000,000 bill ! ! !

HELP FOR STUDENTS

My idea for an E Book for first time students has already caught the imagination of some as I visit a household in Glossop where they have had the expereince of their daughter going to University away from home and struggling to adapt to a new way of life. I will be releasing more detail of this project next month, but in the meantime I wrote an article for our latest newsletter suggesting the idea. I am delighted to see that there does appear to be a need for it.

HIGH PEAK COMMUNITY HOUSING - FAREWELL TO WALTER

At the Annual General Meeting of High Peak Community Housing, the Chairman, Walter Sutcliffe has stepped down. I have only been on the Board for a short while, but in that short time I have seen how committed to the company Walter has been. Many tributes are paid to Walter on the day, leaving him speechless - well almost !

NEW MILLS VOLUNTEER CENTRE

Along with my colleague on High Peak Borough Council, Cllr. Tony Ashton (pictured) we host a quiz night in aid of the New Mills Volunteer Centre. We have done them before and as ever it is an enjoyable evening with money raised for the cause too. 

SIR NICK WINTERTON

At the Annual Ladies Christmas Lunch we have Sir. Nicholas Winterton as our geust speaker. SIr Nick delivers a typically impassioned speech dealing with many of the issues of the day ranging from the European Union to the failings fo the present Labour Government. I also get chance to speak to him about the forthcoming decision on maternity services in the North West. Whilst the units under threat are not in the High Peak they are used by many young mothers across the constituency.

HPBC CENTRAL AREA FORUM

The lates Central Area Forum which I chair discusses transport and the future for the High Peak. There is a lot of talk at the moment around reducing carbon emmissions, many of which are as a result of car journeys. A good integrated and efficient public transport system will be vital for an area like the High Peak. It is the only way that we can persuade people out of their cars and into buses and trains. I myself travel to London regularly and always use the train. Unfortunately I have to travel to Chesterfield by car to get the train.

FULL COUNCIL TO DECIDE ON THE FOOD HALL STUDY TONIGHT !

After months of debate, negotiation and discussion the decision on whether or not to give EMDA the go ahead to look into the feasibility of a Food Hall in the Pavilion Gardens is to be made at a special meeting of the full Council of High Peak Borough Council. I have studied the proposals long and hard. I acknowledge that EMDA have made siginificant concessions on their original proposals. However, they are not sufficient to convice of the projects merits nor its viability or sustainsbility. I intend to vote against the proposal and will speak against it

FOOD HALL GOES THROUGH

Last nights meeting of HPBC approved the £750,000 feasibility study into a Food Hall in the Pavilion Gardens. Despite my efforts and those of others the vote was passed 20-15.

FOOD HALL PROTEST MARCH

I along with my Conservative colleagues from High Peak Borough Council, Cllrs. Tony Ashton & Cllr. Chris Pearson join in the protest march through the streets of Buxton at the decision to allow EMDA to spend £750,000 on their feasibility study. We are joined by our colleague from DCC. Cllr. Robin Baldry and his wife Linda. A crowd of several hundred march with us. As I address the crowd I can sense the feeling of outrage at the decision by the Council. As I have said on several occasions, the proposals are seriously flawed.

TOUR OF THE HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT

Thanks to Charles Hendry, the last Conservative MP for the High Peak I lead a group of people from High Peak Conservatives to London for a visit to the Houses of Parliament. Following a guided tour we meet with Charles in Portcullis House for a question and answer session

ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS

Whilst in London, I took the opportunity to attend a briefing by John Redwood MP on the work being done in the party around economic competitiveness. One of the facts of this Labour Government is that Britain has plummeted in the leagues of competitivity. This has been due to the massive burden of red tape and legislation imposed on business by Gordon Brown. It will be a big task of the next Conservative government to set about unravelling this to allow British business to once again compete in a global market place

SHADOW CHANCELLOR IN VISIT TO HIGH PEAK

Shadow Chancellor, George Osborne MP took time out of his busy schedule to come to High Peak. George is much in demand across the country, and as he tries to balance these pressures on his time whilst shadowing Gordon Brown, I am very grateful for his support.

DINNER WITH ROGER HELMER MEP

I share a platform with Roger Helmer MEP. Roger and his colleague in Europe, CHris Heaton-Harris ensure that despite the High Peak being the northernmost outpost of the East Midlands region, we always have a voice in Brussels.

GLOSSOP AREA FORUM

As there are Area Forums on the Central Area, (which I Chair), Buxton and the Hope valley so there is one covering Glossop. Tonights meeting is discussing health provision in the Glossop area. The discussion revolves around the proposed new Glossop Primary Care Centre. Whilst this appears to be good for Glossop, it transpires that there is a proposal to move 10 beds from Shire Hill hospital to Hyde which is not good news. It also comes out of the meeting that there will be no room at the centre for vountary or support groups who presentyl use the exisitng clinic. 

BUXTON AREA FORUM

The subject for the BAF is the arts, although following the recent vote on the Food Hall those present are concerned, rightly in my opinion, as the the impact that the loss of space available will have on the arts in and around the Buxton area.

DECISION ON MATERNITY PROVISION

After months of consultation today is the day for a decision on the provision of maternity services in the North West. I have already been quite outspoken on this issue, especially over the conduct of our local MP who seems to have little interest in this. The meeting is held in Manchester. I am there at 10am prompt. The decison is made at approximately 3.30pm when it is decided to back option A which entails the closure of the facility at Macclesfield. This will be disastrous for the young mothers of Buxton, Chapel & Whaley Bridge> teh good thing to come out of it is at least Tameside survives the axe. I have advocated that none of the options were suitable and a further option retaiening Macclesfield & Tameside be adopted. Unsruprisingly, despite several other MP's being present, there was no sing of the High Peak Member of Parliament !

COUNCIL SURGERY

At my latest Councillors Surgery I have several callers. HPBC have a supply of low energy light bulbs for distribution. I add the fact that I will have them with me to my advert in the newspaper. Accompanied by my County Council colleague, Tracy Critchlow, We give out quite a few bulbs.

MORE MONEY FOR CHAPEL

I have managed to secure £500 from the High Peak Borough Councils going local fund for Chapel Cricket Club for the erection of some safety netting. Residents on Brookside were concerned about stray cricket balls landing in their gardens. I worked with the residents and the Cirkcet Club as both parties were keen to resolve the issue. I hope that the £5000 will help to bring the matter to a speedy conclusion for both the Club and the residents.

CHRISTMAS CAROLS

Carol singing in Charlesworth is very well attended. I along with my fellow Councillors, Anne Worrall, George and Jean Wharmby enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a good sing song of Christmas carols

KINDER CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT

As a Ptron of the Choir I always enjoy the Christmas concert. The work that Joyce does with the children is nothing less than phenomenal and to see them sing so beautifully and enthusistically really warms the heart. Young people very often get a bad press, but to see the Choir shows the true side of young people and what they can achieve with a little support. Coming so soon after the performance of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol that I saw at New Mills school, it really proves what talent lies in the young people of the High Peak

POST OFFICES

I am aghast at the comments of locel MP TOm LEvitt regarding Post Offices in yesterdays debate in the House of Commons when he declares that their future is 'bleak'. The small Post Office is very often the heart and soul of a small community. I know that shops in Fairfield have seen a downturn since the closure of that Post Office has sent more people down into the heart of Buxton. We should not just condemn them to the dustbin with a glib remark.

MANOR PARK GATES

I would have liked the gates to be in place by now but it has been a very slow process. I meet with a local builder today to look at creating a pedestrian access once the gates are in position. I hope that this is going to be the last piece on the jigsaw and we can get them underway very soon

HPBC - PROVISION FOR YOUTH

The sub group within High Peak Borough Council which is looking at what is provided for young people across the Borough meets tonight. I Chair this Group and we have been charged with the development of a 'Play Strategy' . If we do this it will hopefully opeen the door to further external funding for more play equipment across the Borough. There needs to be more for young people, so this is a very important committee in my opinion. The strategy is almost complete and ready for submission. The Members of the committee make a few final comments which hopefully will mena that the exercise, which has been a long one will be successful.

PRISONERS ON THE RUN !

As it becomes apparent that more prisoners are wlaking out of Sudbury Open Prison it also becomes more of a concern in the High Peak. Sudbury is about 30 miles away, but it is a direct road from there to Manchester through the High Peak. I am worried that prisoners will make for the city and pass through the High Peak on route.

THE COST OF TONY BLAIR

I am astounded at the costs of Downing Street as reported today. Tony Blair has presided over a trebling of the costs to £18million !!! This comes on top of the news that the Blairs are recruiting a butler (or as they prefer to call it a 'House Manager'). Staff costs have risen from £3.4m to £11m and hospitality has trebled to £160,000 a year. ALl this whilst the police have to beg for money in order to ensure that criminals convicted abroad can be entered on to our systems ! It makes you want to scream !!!

HIGH PEAK CRICKET SOCEITY

A rare chance to go to the Cricket Society. I have been a Member for some time now, but unfortunately I dont often make the meetings. Its nice to see so many oldf friends there and talk about Cricket and lament the fortunes of the English team in Auistralia.

POLICE BUDGETS

I have been invited to a presentation by the Chief Constable of Derbyshire, David Coleman on police funding for the coming year. In these days when the fear of crime is in so many peoples minds, I support anything that will help the police to do their job. My thoughts are very much mirrored by other members of the public. There is still a lot of respect for the police and the difficulties that they face in reducing crime.

GLOSSOPDALE SIXTH FORM

In what appears to be coming an annual event I go to Glossopdale Community College to talk to the lower sixth form about politics in general and the Conservative Party in particular. I always try to be careful within schools. I want young people to become more involved in politics. My job today is not to resort to Party political points, but to talk and more importantly listen to the thoughts of what after all will be tomorrows voters. I am impressed with not only their knowledge but their interest. My talk and the questions and answer session that follows lasts approximately 2 hours 

FERODO PENSIONS - HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT

As the fight goes on for justice for the victims of the T&N pensions crash, a group of T&N pensioners are taking a presentation to Westminster. They believe that a better solution can be found than the Pension Protection Fund. I have tried to work with them where I can, and as a result they have asked that I be included in the list of MP's invited. Whilst the PPF is a very good backstop, it still does not completely coreect the injustice. I know these people have worked long and hard on this solution and I am delighted to get the opportunity to attend their presentation.

T&N - A SOLUTION ?

The presnetation by the Turner & Newall Pensions Action Group, was excellently presented, so much so that one MP said that he couldnt understand why it had to go into the PPF at all. Whilst he admitted to not being a pensions expert, he said that the facts presented seemed to indicate that there is a better alternative. I was impressed by the presentation, and intend to write to the Independant Trustee urging him to see the TANAG group to listen to their proposals.

HOW MUCH LONGER CAN HE GO ON

Following news that the Prime Minister has been interviewed yet again in the cash for honours enquiry, and that more of his Parliamentary colleagues are now becoming uneasy, I ask the question, how much longer can he continue. The whole Government is now obsessed with is departure date, instead of tending to their business of running the country. I beleive Mr. Blair should go and go soon !

HPBC - DEVLEOPMENT PLAN MEETING

The Development Plan Select Committee of High Peak Borough Council meets this evening. I chair this committee which looks at the long term planning issues that will affect the way that the High Peak looks in the future

CHAPEL WEST RESIDENTS

I meet with a group of residents in my Council Ward of Chapel West. They have an issue that I have been hel[ping them to solve for some time now. As well as all the work that I cover on Parliamentary Candidate business, the most satisfying aspect is when I cen get stuck into some Council casework that I can really make a difference to. This particular issues is very complicated but I think that we are making slow progress

DINNER FOR 4 !!

I ave been asked to donate something for an auction of promises for Blythe House Hospice in Chapel. After much consideration I have offered to cook dinner for 4 people in their own home. It is to be auctioned at tonights candlelit dinner event for Blythe House.

POST OFFICES

In repsonse to a letter I sent to each and every Post Office in the High Peak, I am visiting those that have asked to meet with me. The Postmaster's views on the Governments proposed closure programme are very interesting and illuminating. One thing is apparent, many of them want to stay open and continue to serve the rural communities that depend on them. They have their own ideas that would enable them to survive in todays world where so many people rely on the internet.

MONEY FOR BLYTEH HOUSE HOSPICE

I am delighted to learn that my offer to cook dinner for 4 people raised £150 at the Blythe House Candlelit Supper on Saturday night. My big question is now, is what to cook for the 'lucky' winners !

COFFEE CLUB

The Buxton West Coffee Club gets back into full swing with a talk from local gamekeeper Fred Mitchinson. Fred tells a large audience how the moors that occupy so much of the High Peak are managed. He stresses that the moors that we see, look so good due to the enormous amoutn of work that is put in to make them sustainable. This work also enables many different species of wildlfie to exist in the High Peak

PLAY STRATEGY

Meet with Council Officers to study the draft Play Strategy. This has been drawn up to aid a bid to the Lottery for funds to improve play areas across the High Peak. We have spent many hours geting it right. If successful we will be able to improve play facilities acrosss the Borough.

POST OFFICES

As the deadline for consultation on Post Office closures gets ever nearer, I continue with my visits to every Post Office in the High Peak. I have already written to each one. Many of them have asked to see me, and today I continue with those visits

FAIR TRADE FORTNIGHT

Accompanied by my colleague, County Councillor, Robin Baldry, I visited the Fair Trade stand in Spring Gardens, Buxton. I support Fair trade where I can, and I am also very mindful that we shoudl all support our local farmers and food producers too.

STEPPING HILL HOPSITAL

I have been invited to view the new cardiac facilities at Stepping Hill hospital. Whilst the hospital is outside the High Peak, it serves many of our residents, especially in the Central area of the constituency. The new facilties are excellent, and I meet with several members of staff who tell me how the health service is performing at the moment. It always pays to speak with the frontline professionals as it is they who know the real truth about services on offer.

MASS CANVAS

As well as regular surveys conducted throughout the High Peak by Conservatives, we have our 6 monthly 'Mass Canvas' where we get as many people out across the constituency in a single day, knocking no 100's of doors. Yet again it is ag reat success. If you are reading this and did now receive a visit, please go to our survey page and complete our latest residents survey.

BLOG ON HOLD DURING ELECTIONS

Dear Reader. I will be putting my blog on hold during theBorough Council Election Campaign. This is for legal reasons surrounding election expenses. I will resume after May 3rd. Many thanks. Andrew

BLOG RESUMED ! !

For electoral law reasons the Blog was suspended during the recent local election campaigns. The Blog will recommence on Monday 18th June.  Andrew

THE BLOG IS BACK

So much has happened since the last entry, is it hard to know where to begin. The Conservatives have taken control of High Peak Borough Council following a landslide result on May 3rd. Gordon Brown is unopposed as the successor to Tony Blair. The world of politics is now hotting up. Tony Blair has embarked on some rock star type farewell world tour, and others in the Labour Government seem more preoccupied with deciding who the Deputy Leader of the Labour Party is going to be. They say a week is a long time in politics !! 

WALKABOUT IN GAMESLEY

Derbyshire's Chief Constable, David Coleman is visiting the High Peak prior to his retirement. I accompany him on a visit to gamesley where we meet local residents and volunteers. Meetings like this are invaluable to me, both as a local Councillor and as a Parliamentary Candidate. I would urge anyone who wants me to visit them or a local project to contact me. If invited I will come. 

HIGH PEAK COMMUNITY HOUSING

In my new role on HPBC I meet with the Board of High Peak Community Housing to discuss the future of the company. This is a decision to ba taken in 2008 but we need to start thinking about it now. I stressed that there are several options, but the tenants needs are paramount and they will be consulted prior to any significan changes in the delivery of the service.

COUNCIL BUILDINGS

I and several other Councillors vist the buildings and office of HPBC. During the tour it givs us the chance to meet various officers of the Authority and hear first hand of their thoughts and issues. We particulerly look at Health & Safety in these buildings.

THE CATWALK ! FAIR TRADE EVENT - THE DOME

I have been asked to take part in a Fair Trade day at the Dome in Buxton. I was more than happy to give my support to the event, however I didnt expect to be treading the catwalk as a model for the Fair Trade clothes that were on sale. It was pleasing however to recieve one wolf whistle as I walked down the cat walk (nice to have family there!). More seriously I also made a short speech in trade inequality and the subject of child labour throuhgout the world today. It is much more prevalent that you or I would imagine. The picture is slightly blurred as I wlaked a little too quickly to be a proper model ! (one of many reasons why I couldnt - I will look forward to any comments as to the others !!)

CHARITY WALK 2008

Emma McClarkin & I get together to discuss a new Charity walk for 2008. Lasy year we walked the constituency boundary, this year we have decided to take to the hills and walk '4 peaks in 2 days'. We will walk up Kinder Scout, Mam Tor, Castle Naze, and Corbar Cross. Emma is now a prospective European Parliamentary Candidate for the East Midlands so this walk will give her a panormaic view over the northern most part of the East Midlands.

TINTWISTLE COFFEE MORNING

Following news that their Post Office has been earmarked for closure I have been asked by my colleague on High Peak Borough Council, Cllr. Cynthia Mitchell to attend a residents coffee morning to discuss the matter. I explain the situation and highlight how difficult it has become under this Government to run a small sub Post Office nowadays. We also discuss a wide range of other issues. Whilst in the village Cynthia takes me to see the war memorial that is undergoing further renovation to add to the work we did last year.

DOVE HOLES POST OFFICE

Nowhere in the High Peak has the proposed Post office closures caused more unrest than in Dove Holes. The Post Office operates 3 days a week out of the Methodist Church and provides a vital service for the villagers. Following telephone conversations, I meet with the vilagers to explain the consultation process and what we can do to try and save the facility. I agree that I too will make strong representations to the Post Office on their behalf and that of the service.

THE RENT SERVICE REVIEW

I am furious now that the results of The Rent Service Review are known. They seem to have completely disregarded all the evidence that says Glossop does not belong in the NE Manchester area. A large body of evidence has been presented by many people including the Citizens Advice Bureau, but they have completely disregarded it and offered no change to their original analysis. I am chairing a meeting of stakeholders soon when we will gather more views to be put forward during the 6 week consultation period.

MILLENNIUM CELLAR - GLOSSOP

I have been requested to Chair a meeting at the Millennium Cellar regarding the way forward to increase its use. The Cellar is an excellent facility and I would urge any young people reading this to go along and see for yourself. The volunteers were all very psoitive and soem good ideas came out of the meeting to take the cellar forward.

CHAPEL SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM LAUNCH

I am teending the laucnh of the team. WIth many local people and interested parties I listended as the Police outlined their plan for the team and how it will help promote safety in the Chapel neighbourhood for everyone. Many people are cioncerned about the levels of anti social behaviour in the village, as indeed are many people right across the High Peak. I know that the police have worked very hard at this, as indeed Have High Peak Borough Council to help provide other attractions for young people to take part in during the evening.

E-BOOK FLASH PLAYERS AT THE READY

Collected first shipment of flash players ready to have th ebook loaded on to them for next weeks launch events. Purchased locally from Computerman in Chapel, it means that not only will the book benefit local students but the local economy too, albeit in a small way.

LIBERATION DAY

I attend the Annual Liberation Day in Buxton. It is a fantastic day for all ages with lots of useful information on lots of different services. Many elderly people are there and find this information invaluable. I am delighted as I along with colleagues on HPBC, ensured that the event would happen by finding some funding to plug a gap that the organisers had earlty in the year when the future of the event was in grave doubt

GLOSSOP MOUNTAIN RESCUE

At the opening of the new HQ for Glossop Moutnain Rescue, I leanr more about the excellent work that they do. I am delighted to be raising money for them during my charity hike next month

HIGH PEAK GAMES

What a fantastic event ! Schools from across the High Peak send their best teams to compete against each other in a range of sports. The weather holds fine (a miracle this summer) to ensutre that as may as 200 hundred children have a great day of competitive sport with prizes won by many.

MEETING WITH DAVID CAMERON

I meet with David Cameron to update him on the progress of my E-Book. The E-Book is an electronic guide for students leaving home later this year to go to University. It is available on a flash player and is free of charge. It also includes and interactive budget planner that will help students to plan their finances once away from home 

GAMESLEY SUMMER FUN

My secnd visit to Gamesley Community Centre in as many weeks. I am there to see the range of activities we are providing through the summer holidays. Arts & Crafts, bouncy castles are amongst the things on offer

MANOR PARK - GREEN FLAG

Along with my colleague, John Haken, I attend the presentation ceremony for the green Flag awards acheived by three of the parks across the Borough. Manor Park is the latest addition. Soon Manor park will also have its long awaited gates too.

'LIVING ON YOUR OWN' - E-BOOK COMPLETE !

At nearly midnight, I have managed to put the final touches to the free ebook guide for students. After wrestling with the software for most of the day, Ive managed to convert the text into my vision of an electronic book. All that remains now is to start downloading it on to the 200 flash players purchased locally. For full details and how to get your free copy, please refer to the news page  elsewhere in the site 

HIGH PEAK SPORTS AWARDS

I am delighted to be asked to present the High Peak Sports Awards in the Council Chamber in Chinley. There were so many worthy nominees that it was a shame that someone had to lose. As far as I was concenrend they were all winners for being there. We hear so much today about how people dont participate in Sport it was heartening to see that there is a healthy level of sport participation across the High Peak  

GIRLS FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

Ladies football is the fastest growing sport in the country, and in response to this a girls football tournament has been organised in New Mills. The Council is a partner in this project, so in my role as Executive Member for Social & Community Development I attend. Also present is England international Karen Carney who answered questions from the girls before presenting awards for the day. I never thought I would see the day when I appeared on the Football Assn website..

DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD !

In preparation for next weeks launch events (see the main page of the website) I need to download the E-Book on to the flash players. Whilst it is a fairly quick process, there are almost 200 of them to do - another late night in the office, but they all get done. It means that the E-Book is now ready to be given out next week !!

HIKE TRAINING

Less than a week to go before the Charity Hike, so more training. I keep walking every week in readiness. Despite the wet weather, it is quite relaxing walking round the area and as the big day approaches I am looking forward to it more and more. I just hope that the rains stays away

MANOR PARK GATES

The gate posts are in, and I pay a quick visit to check on the pedestrian access which is being worked on at present. All seems to be on target for the new gates to be hung next week.

HOLIDAY WHAT HOLIDAY ??

More walking in preparation for Thursday. Most people take their holidays around this time, I seem to be even busier than normal - several projects are all coming together at the same time; The Charity Hike, the E-Book launch and also the new Manor Park Gates. There is more to come, so watch this space !!

SIMMONDLEY SCHOOL

Accomapnied by my colleague on High Peak Borough Council, Matt Crompton who is one of the new Councillors for Simmondley, I spoke to a class of pupils all about democracy, the workings of Government at both local and national level. They asked lots of excellent questions, and they kept on coming !  So much so that we ran out of time with the kids actually expressing a wish to stay behind after school to ask more questions !!

WALKING FOR MULAGO HOSPITAL

I have agreed to accompany one of my opponents at the last election on a Charity Walk in aid of the Mulago Hospital. Marc Godwin, myself and several others set off from Edgeley Park, home of Stockport County and Sale Sharks to walk to Manchester City's ground at Eastlands. This is the first part of a 5 day walk. Whilst the secenery wasnt as nice as my own charity walk earlier in the year, I still enjoyed the experience and feel sure that it will help the hospital. In addition I also agreed to send a donation to the cause 

CIVIC SERVICE

The annual Civic Service for the Mayor is beign held this year in Glossop. The years mayor, Jean Wharmby has been doing an excellent job in her role, and the Civic Service was a credit to her. Lots of COnservative Councillors attended the service to make it a special occasion for both Jean and her consort George.

COMBS SCHOOL SAVED !!!!

I attend a meeting of the DCC Cabinet to hear the decision over the closure of Combs School. I, and many of the local residents and members of the campaign to save the school are al there hoping that the Cabinet follow the recommendation to keep the school open. The cabinet member, Alan Charles, somewhat begrudgingly moves the recommendation, despite stating his express oppostiion to it. The recommendation is carreid and the school is saved. Whilst we are all delighted, we must temper our delight with the fact that DCC have stated that they are going to keep the places situation under review. I feel that we have won the battle, but may not yet have won the war ! However for the moment the campaign team should be very proud of what they have acheived.

STAND UP SPEAK UP - HAYFIELD

The second of our Stand Up Speak Up events, this time in Hayfield. Whilst not hugely atteded those who were there, had some very strong views on issues that the party has been looking at. As before, if you couldnt make the meeting please feel free to give you comments via this website

STAND UP SPEAK UP - GLOSSOP

The first of our Stand Up Speak Up events where we are giving members of the public the opportunity to comment on Conservative ideas coming out of the study groups set up 18 months ago by David Cameron. A small but committed group have given me lots to think about in terms of the direction they feel the country should heading in. If you couldnt make the meeting, please feel free to comment via this site.

BLYTHE HOUSE OPEN DAY

An open day at Blythe House Hospice. Accompanied by the Mayor, Cllr. Jean Wharmby we listen to an explanation of the work of the Hospice. I am familiar with the Hospice as my wife is a fund raiser for them and also my recent walk has also raised money for them.

EBOOK LAUNCHES IN BUXTON & GLOSSOP

The second ebook launch in Glossop at the Old Glove Works, follows last nights launch at the Railway in Buxton. Local group Voodoo Doll entertain students on both evenings. Several people came to collect their ebooks and many of them took several copies for friends as well. I was a little disappointed with the turn out, but it has been out weighed by the number of email requests we have received for the books.

MANOR PARK GATES - AT LAST !!!!!

7AM - At last the new gates are on at Manor Park. After hours of work and planning the promise has been met and I am delighted. An early morning trip to check the new gates out, and whilst I suppose I am biased, I think they look fabulous. The official opening will be in a couple of weeks but people can now see that the gates are there after 30 years of waiting. I suppose we could paraphrase Skinner & Baddiel with '30 years of hurt, new park gates still gleaming!'

GREEN ACTION - BUXTON & TINTWISTLE

Following requests from local Conservative Councillors and residents, I, accompanied by local Conservatives are undertaking two local projects. Firstly we are cutting back trees alongside the path at the rear of St. Johns church. AFter finishing there, I head off over the Tintwistle where, again, accompanied by local Conservative volunteers, we do some planting and tidying of the war memorial.

EMISSIONS IN CHAPEL

Several residents in my Council Ward of Chapel West have been experiencing difficulties with metallic deposits on their vehicles and houses. Working in conjunction with them and local businesses we have been trying to identify the source of these problems. In order to try and help them further I have today spoken direct to the Environment Agency who sent a representative to my office to see what they could do to help.

THE HIKE IS ON

The High Peak Hike starts here. I will put a daily pic on the blog and a daily commentary Arrival at Hope to set off on the long trek. The first big hill of the hike is Winnats Pass, probably the steepest of the whole hike. Emma is insistent that we buy some Kendal Mint Cake – apparently it is what Edmund Hilary took up Everest, “so if its good enough fir him, its good enough for us” she says. As we start to walk up Winnats we are joined by a small flock of sheep that seem to insist on keeping us company all the way to the top, although they do seem to be frightened of the camera. We reach the top of Barmoor Clough in double quick time, so we decide to grab a bacon sandwich. The man sees our t-shirts and refuses to take any money and insists on giving us two bottles of water each. On arrival into Buxton, we call in to look around the Buxton for Youth project – one of the charities. We leave to go to meet David Coleman, The Chief Constable. David is doing a similar project, and as he says in his speech, his walk is longer, but as we replying a good-hearted exchange, ours is on consecutive days. This is the only day that our walks cross so its good to meet up and share some mutual encouragement. W wishes him well and give him a bottle of Rockhead water from Buxton. (Rockhead have donated as much water as we can drink in small clip on flasks. Following that we go to the opening of Justice, a new Fair Trade shop in Buxton. The first day is over, and we collapse into the armchairs in the bar at the Leewood who have generously donated rooms for the night

HIGH PEAK HIKE - DAY 2

As we walk up Long Hill I do a live interview with High Peak Radio and after telling them where we are cars begin to blow their horns as we pass. Then suddenly a car pulls up and hands us a £10 note saying that he had heard it no the radio and wanted to donate – the power of radio ! We can’t believe the weather – it is beautiful. As we drop down into the Goyt Valley the scenery is stunning. For someone like myself who has grown up with it, it is easy to take it for granted, Emma’s camera snaps away as each bend brings a different scene. Again we are walking a lot quicker than we imagined, so we take a breather by the side of the reservoir before heading into Whaley Bridge where we grab a sandwich. We then apply our first blister plasters of the walk ! As we walk through Furness Vale, the traffic thunders past us, reminding both of us of the need for something to deal with this problem. More cars hoot and toot as they pass. We then walk through New Mills before arriving, ahead of schedule again ! at the Royal Hotel in Hayfield. Like the Leewood, the Royal have also agreed to donate our accommodation. The heat has made us both extremely thirsty ! I will say no more, suffice it to add that several friend joined us in the evening for something to eat, and a good night was had by all ! – I think

HIGH PEAK HIKE - DAY 3

Patricia Ash of Blythe House Hospice who wishes us well sees us off. Again we start with a hill, out of Hayfield to Chunal before dropping into Glossop. Not an easy road to walk along. For some reason I drink a lot more water this morning, can’t understand it ! We arrive into Glossop bang on time (after more blister plasters), where we are met by Members of Glossop Mountain Rescue. Also several friends also join us to walk the rest of the day. We set of down the main street before heading up to Hadfield, Padfield and Tintwistle. Unbeknown to me, Emma is a fan of the League of Gentlemen, so a detour into the centre of ‘Royston Vasey’ is deemed a must. We call in for coffee at the Royston Vasey Café where Emma insists on a picture. Today is a huge contrast to yesterday as we are walking through towns more than open country. We drop down Dinting Vale and up through Gamesley before finishing at the Brentwood guesthouse, where High Peaks Mayor, Jean Wharmby has donated our accommodation. Emma insists on watching the Rugby League Cup Final followed by the rugby union international. I can get a look in with the remote control to find out how Buxton and Manchester City have gone on. In the evening we go into Glossop to eat. We raise a glass to the fact that we are over halfway, but we know tomorrow is the longest day

HIGH PEAK HIKE - DAY 4

We meet up with the Glossop Mountain Rescue Team in Old Glossop. This means passing the new Manor Park Gates that I have spent almost 2 years working to have put in. I think they look great. The Mountain Rescue team take us up the Doctors Gate footpath to the summit, which is a lot safer than the road. The scenery yet again is stunning and the Mountain Rescue Team regale us with tales of rescues they have performed over the years. When we reach the summit, they were going to turn back, but when they heard that we would probably be stopping at the Snake Inn, they carried walking with us. We stopped briefly at the pub for a drink (non alcoholic), before dropping down into Ladybower. As we walk along the road we see a farmer, who immediately recognises us. After a brief chat, we soldier on and on and on. The Snake Pass is always longer than I think when I drive it, and it is no different when you walk it. After several hours walking we see the reservoir open out in front of us and soon we trudge wearily into the Yorkshire Bridge Inn, our overnight halt. The Inn is packed with people and we sit outside for a while to rest our aching feet. Today has been the longest and hardest day, but we now know that we are almost there with just a short stroll into Hope to do tomorrow. We are joined later in the bar by my fellow Councillor and Deputy Leader of High Peak Borough Council, Tony Ashton, his wife Pam and my own wife Jayne. As I say to them, we both feel semi elated as the finish is in sight.

HIGH PEAK HIKE - DAY 5

The last day !! We are joined more Conservatives as Thalia Openshaw from Newark joins us, also my father Tony who is Councillor for Blackbrook Ward who joins us for the third time on the walk. In addition we are also joined by the Conservative Party Chief Whip; Rt. Hon. Patrick McLoughlin MP. Patrick and I discuss the political climate and also the boundary changes affecting both his and my constituencies. As we walk down into Bamford we are walking the boundary between our two areas. Today is a short day and as we walk into Hope our pace quickens as we near the finish line. Emma and I decide we will run the last 100 yards and we duly do so and run across the line together. Job Done !! We then go into Hope show where we are greeted by fellow Councillor Tony Favell before going to meet the Glossop Mountain Rescue team who have a stand at the show. Its good to see them again as they were great company the previous day. Emma has been given certain challenges to do in order to get extra sponsor money, one of which is to pose on a vehicle. The team lift her on to the bonnet of their Landover where she hams it up for the camera. I notice many of the male members scrabbling for their mobile phone cameras. As I say to her she will be on more screen savers in the High Peak she knows. (The team also helped her fulfil another challenge on Saturday when she was picture being carried by a team of men).   After a walk round Hope show where we meet many well wishers, we are picked up and taken home so that Emma can catch her flight back to Brussels. They do not have the August Bank holiday, so as well as being grateful to Emma for taking part, I am also grateful to her boss Roger Helmer MEP for allowing her time off to come over.   So the walk is done, the weather held and all we need to do now is to get all the money in. Watch this space for an announcement as to how much we raised for each charity. The whole thing was a great experience, we met some fantastic people, marvelled at our fantastic countryside, had an awful lot of fun, and we know we will have raised an appreciable sum for the Charities which are; Blythe House Hospice, Buxton for Youth and Glossop Mountain Rescue. Emma McClarkin was walking for Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

CHATSWORTH FAIR

A meeting with fellow Candidates, Pauline Latham and Heather Wheeler together with Chief Whip Patrick McLoughlin. We discuss the likelihood of a snal election in the autumn. Al three of us are straining at the leash and would be ready for a General Election. We then go to the Chatsworth fiar where I meet quite a lot of High Peak people

STRASBOURG

I have organised a visit to the European Parliament for Association members. A party of almost 30 set off today. The last time I did this to Brussels, one of our party fell and spent a week in hosptal with a broken hip. I would leave her alone so ended up stopping in Brussels for an extra 5 days. As everybody boards the bus, I ask them to be very careful when in Strasbourg !

STRASBOURG - DAY 2

A day at leisure for the whole party. Everyone goes of in different directions. Strasbourg is a beautiful city, even though it seems to enjoying the same weather as we have been doing - it rains !!

Fortunately, my phone hasnt rung so I assume that there are no casualties.

STARSBOURG DAY 3

I SPOKE TO SOON ! ! ! One of our ladies has fallen, but fortunately she has only cut herself. She fell on her friend, (who coincidentally was the lady who broke her hip 2 years ago - they say what goes around comes around).

We visit the parliament building where we meet up with my good friend, Eats Midlands MEP Roger Helmer. ALso there is my walking partner, Emma. We briefly compare notes on blisters.

The Parliament is a luxuriour building, which makes it even more obscene considering it is only used for one week in four !! Remember this extravagance alone costs £10,000,000 PER MONTH ! ! !

After the visit we all go out for dinner together and have a great meal together with some impromptu entertainment. Check back soon for photos !! (Better get permission)

RETURN FROM STRASBOURG

No not a new film, just the fact that we set off home today. Everyone has thoroughly enjoyed the trip and they are all eager to know what I can organise for next year.

CANAL BASIN - WHALEY BRIDGE

I visit the transfer station in the basin to listen to the palns for renovation. The building has some great potential to be a real tourist attraction for visitors to the area. The history is fascinating.

NEW MANOR PARK GATES - AT LAST

A very proud moment. Sometime ago I pledged to bring back gates to Manor Park. Today sees the culmination of two years hard work and a fulfiment of that pledge. I know many doubted me, (included one local Labour Councillor), but I ma very proud to have delivered on my promise. I would have been about 11 years old when the originals were taken away, but it is great that I have been the one to restore such an iconic landmark for everyone in Glossop. I would love to hear your comments on this issue please.

SHIREBROOK - MUGA

This issue is one that I have inherited following taking on the role of Executive Member for Social and Community Development. It is a very difficult situation for local residents. The Multi User Games Area (MUGA) is getting lots of use, and is generating complaints form nearby neighbours over noise. In todays local paper I am disappointed to have been quoted out of context, but I am determined to acheive the best solution for both the users, the residents of the Shirebrook area and also the negihbours. There may be costs to the Council but I feel it is important that we deal with this  problem as soon as possible. I have visited the MUGA on several occasions and do so again today. There is an expert on fencing an dsound on site and we have a long discussion about the problem. In addition two residents also come out to speak to me about the issues.

SHIREBROOK

I meet with local Coucnillors to discuss the ongoing situation with the Multi User Games Area on Shirebrook estate. I am determined that whilst being the Executive Member responsible for play areas, I want to make any decisions in conjunction with local Ward members. Also my Conservative colleague, County Councillor George Wharmby attends as there are issues with the road that fall under him as the County Councillor for the area.

SHIREBROOK MUGA - PUBLIC MEETING

A well attended meeting where local residents voice their concerns that the MUGA is to be removed. As I explain, the purpose of the meeting is to update residents on measures beign taken by the Council to alleviate any potentail noise problems. A leaflet put out has intimated that the MUGA is being removed. As I tell the residents, this is not the case !!

HIGH PEAK HIKE RAISES £2692.00

At last all the money is in and I can hand it over to the Charities who need is so much. In total the HIke has raised almost £3000 for charity, so not only was it a thoroughly enjoyable exercise, but a very worthwhile one too. Its nice that Emma can also be there on her way to the Party Conference due to start on Sunday 

PARTY CONFERENCE - ELECTION OR NOT ??

In Blackpool ready for the Conservative Party Conference that starts tomorrow. The country seems gripped with Election fever as the Prime Minister considers his options. Personally I would welcome an early Election, and believe that Gordon Brown has a duty to call it. After all, his predecessor promised to serve a full term. Now just two years later he has gone !

CONFERENCE ROUND UP

After one of the most intense Conferences I have attended, we all leave Blackpool full of heart. Our proposals are exciting and relevant to todays Britain. Those on Stamp Duty will help High Peak's young people to get on the property ladder as they now see the exemption to Stamp Duty for first time buyers up to £250,000. The proposals on Inheritance Tax also allow all but millionaires to avoid death duties. These are just two of many proposals that have come out of an excellent conference, rounded off by an incredible speech by David Cameron

BROWN BOTTLES OUT

After much fevered specualtion Gordon Brown has changed his mind and decided not to call a General Election in November. He claims all sorts of reasons, but who will believe him. It is patently obvious, he has seen the opinion polls and knows he would lose a snap election. For someone who promised no spin, I dont know whay he just doesnt admit the truth instead of all this bluster !

MANOR PARK BOWLING CLUB

I am seeing Dave Collier from the Bowling Club to hear their ambitious plans for the future of the Club. The plans are indeed ambitious and will require a lot of outside funding, but I have promised to do whatever I can to help to identify any sources of funding that they can access

A DAY ON THE FRONT LINE

Tomorrow I am having a day with the Police to look at what they do, and how they operate. Starting at 10am and working through all the departments and then carrying on into the evening to watch how they police the streets on a busy Friday night

A DAY WITH THE FORCE

Fantastic ! It is the only word to describe our local Police Force. Starting in the morning they show me every aspect of their work and it is a real eye opener as to what the Police actually do to make our streets safer. AFter a tour of all the different departments, I then spent the evening out on patrol. Starting at 6pm, I am not sure what time they were expecting me to stay till, but I thought that I should be there until fairly late to really appreciate the difficulties that they experience on a typical Friday night in Buxton. I didnt leave until about 1.40am. They do a fantastic job for us all !

EU CELEBRATIONS - KINDER CHOIR

As a Ptron of Kinder CHoir I have been invited to Derby Cathedral to wtahc them perform at an event to commemorate 50 years since the Treaty of Rome which convened the orignial EEC, the fore runner of the EU. The choir were, as ever brilliant, and it was nice to see so many High Peak people there supporting them (if not the cause!)

LOCAL DEMOCRACY WEEK

This comes round once a year, and I go into lots of schools across the constituency talking to young people about the Council and democracy. I will place more details on here as the week unfolds

HIGH PEAK INDOOR BOWLING

I meet with the Officers of the Indoor Bowling Assn. They are looking for a venue to bowl indoors throughout the winter. I promise dthem soemtime ago that i would try to help where I could. After some thought and work, I think I may have found them a solution. Its early days yet, but watch this space as they say !

THORNSETT SCHOOL

The school's new Terrapin Hut is being iopoened today. I visited the school some months ago to lend my weight to their campaign for a new building. The new Terrapin has been built following the original one being condemned. Whilst it is a lot better, there can be no denial that the school is bursting at the seams, th eneed for a better building has not gone away. The children perform the school song, and despite it being a cold wet day they keep smiling throughout. It is obviously a happy school led by enthusiastic staff all committed to their pupils.

GLOSSOP COMMUNITY COLLEGE

I am delighted to have been asked to become a Governor at Glossop Community College. I have my first meeting with principal, John Hart at the school. The meeting is really interesting and informative. I am really looking forward to getting stuck in to my new role

PRE BUDGET REPORT

The Chancellors pre budget report can only be described as woeful ! Read the news page on this site for more of my thoughts

TOM LEVITT's EXPENSES

My phones and email have 'lit up' following revelations that local MP Tom Levitt is the 8th most expensive Member of Parliament in the country. As a parliamentary Candidate I dont have the luxury of such expenses, and consequently am unsure as to how he can justify the £168,660 that he spends on running his office. However, from my experience in business where it is always important to keep your overheads low, I feel sure that I would not lose this ethic should I be elected at the next Election. I look at niehgbouring MP's who are all consistently below Mr. Levitt in levels of expenditure, so I am convinced that it can be done quite easily.  

AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL

I have been invited to the showing of a film called 'Taking Liberties' by the members of Amnesty International in Buxton. The film was a sad inditement of the Labour Government and its continual erosion of the civil liberties of the British public. It reinforced my view that the proposals of extending the time allowed to keep prisoners without charge are wrong and unnecessary. After the film we had a good discussion on this and many other matters including the Iraq war and the Governments reasons for taking us into that conflict.

HIGH PEAK COMMUNITY HOUSING

As a Council we have to make a decision about our housing stock before March 2009. Presently it is run by High Peak Community Housing. There are several options, and if you are reading this and would like more details please do not hesitate to contact me. One of the options is to sell the stock off or another is to bring it back in house. I believe that these two options should be ruled out as neither would represent the best deal for our tenants. Tonight I have attended the HPCH board meeting in order to tell them my thoughts and the fact that I will be recommending this to the HPBC Executive on December 11th. This will allow us to move forward with negotiations with a clearer picture. The Board seem pleased with the proposals. I promised to attend the Tenants Forum and Panles with the same message so that our Tenants are clear on the future management of their properties.

CHAPEL EMISSIONS

I have attended a residents meeting of people in Chapel who have been concerned for a long time over mysterious particles appearing on their cars and properties on and around the Burrfields area of Chapel. I have been working with them for some time and also speaking to Federal Mogul to establish if they can help with the matter. ALso at the meeting was a representative of the Environment Agency who are also involved.

BLYTHE HOUSE QUIZ NIGHT

Straight after the residents meeting its off to the Town Hall in Chapel where I am quizmaster at a charity quiz in aid of Blythe House hospice. Every one seemed to enjoy themselves and I am sure we have raised several hundred pounds for the cause. 

HIGH PEAK COMMUNITY HOUSING TENANTS PANEL

The Council has to make a decision about the future of HPCH from March 2009. We have several options; either sell the stock completely, bring it back in house, continue with HPCH or look at a Tenants Management Organisation. AT this stage I intend to recommend to the Executive of the Council that we rule out the first two options. I want to get the best deal for our tenants and I belive that by ruling out the first two options, neither of which would be best for Tenants, we can concentrate on the other options to get the best deals from them. Tonight I am addressing the Tenants Panel for the North area to ecplain this to them. I have previously addressed the Board of the company and the Tenants Forum togehter with other area Panels. It is subject to ratification at the meeting of the Executiev on December 11th.

SIMMONDLEY SURGERY - CLLR MATT CROMPTON

One of our new Councillors, Matt Crompton has asked me to attend his surgery in the event of any issues that I can help with in my role as Parliamentary Candidate. I am happy to do this prior to my attending the meeting of Harpur Hill residents 30 minutes later. I am pleased that we get people along with problems for Matt and I to help with.

HARPUR HILL RESIDENTS MEETING

I was unable to make the last residents meeting due a prior commitment in Glossop, so I was determined to get to this meeting. A quick rush over from Simmondley and I just made it in time. The group asked for an explanation on how planning applications were dealt with and also the situation regarding the allocation of Section 106 monies. These are amounts of money demanded of developers towards a variety of things when planning applications are approved. If you would like a detailed explanation yourself, please do not hesitate to get in touch as the explanation will take up many pages on the blog. The residents are very passionate about Harpur Hill, and I am very impressed with their level of organisation and commitment.

GEORGE OSBORNE

Following my discussions with Shadow Chancellor, George Osborne last year (pictured) I attend another meeting in London with George. The proposals on Inheritance tax and Stamp Duty are discussed along with other plans and ideas that George is working on at present. Myself along with about a dozen other Parliamentary Candidates are grateful of the chance to put our thoughts and concerns to the Shadow Chancellor. It is also an excellent opportunity for us to feedback the thoughts of you, our potential constituents, on a wide range of issues.

CHAPEL REGENERATION COMMITTEE

We have a long discussion over the future of the public toilets in Chapel. The present facilities on the Market Place are becoming unacceptable and we need to do something. Several ideas were discussed and are beign looked at as alternatives. Please feel free to comment here any thoughts or ideas you have of your own.

GLOSSOPDALE SCHOOL

I am delighted to be have been invited to join the Board of Governors of Glossopdal Community College. Tonight is the first meeting and whilst I cant pretend to be able to remember all the names of my fellow Board members at once I am struck with the amount of ability and commitment that is so evident from my first meeting. I am looking forward to getting involved with the issues facing the school at the moment

OVER 50's SWIMMING GROUP

AT the request of the Group I meet with them following their morning swim to answer questions about the future of leisure provision in Buxton an dindeed the rest of the High Peak. As I say to any local group, I will happily come along at any time to listen to your questions, whether they be on local or national issues. I will always try to answer your questions the best that I can.

NEW ALL WEATHER FOOTBALL PITCH FOR HADFIELD !

Fantastic news that the Football Foundation has agrred our bid for £650,000 !! for a new all weather football pitch at the school site in Hadfield. This will be a world class facility, one of the best in the country. It will be fantastic not just for Hadfield, but for all the surrounding area.

FULL MEETING OF HIGH PEAK BOROUGH COUNCIL

A good Council meeting with a long detailed debate on a range of subject and motions put forward by Councillors of all parties. It was regrettable that the Labour Group would not support our motion on Town and Village Greens designed to devise a way of making the balance fairer between genuine TVG applications and those that are submitted for other reasons. Labour also, once again ignored the tradition where Mayoral and Deputy Mayoral nominations received cross party support. All very sad, ungracious and unnecessary !

HAREHILLS PARK

I lend a hand with the clean up group at Harehills Park. There are several of us who all get stuck in and reall make a difference when we've finished. Myself and a Labour COuncillor were detailed to cut back some trees alongside the river, apart from one near miss we manage to do it without falling in - just !

SHIREBROOK BUS ROUTE CHANGED

After several exchanges of emails I am delighted to learn that ther route of the bus service thorugh the Shirebrook Estate in Glossop is now going to change. Following the opening of the link road on the estate, the old route did not fully reflect the needs of estate residents. Now it does. Good news for all concerned.

MORE MONEY FOR HIGH PEAK PLAY AREAS

Great news for the Borough. After lots of work and negotiation we have secured £200,000 from the Big Lottery Fund for investment in play areas across the High Peak. The Officers of the Council have worked hard on this and I am delighted that our efforts have been rewarded

POLICE PROTEST MARCH

Having been invited, and strongly believing that the Government have treated the Police shoddily over their pay settlement I went to London to march with Officer of the local Police force to demonstrate to the Governemnt the strength of feeling over the pay issue. The Government have completely ignored the recommendations of the independant tribunal to back date the pay award. I think this is unacceptable.

VANDALISM THREATENING AFFORDABLE HOUSING

The building of some affordable housing in Ganesley for local people is udner threat due to continuing vandalism on the site. I viti the site to witness the invreased security being implemented by the builders. Its a real concenr that development is being hindered as these houses are for local people. Houses that local people can afford is a bg priority both for the Council and myself.

GLOSSOP SCHOOL - E-BOOKS

At the request of the local press a quick visit to Glossop to drop off a couple more e-book to students. The press have picked up on the fact that the project has been short listed for a national award and they want to promote it and also the fact that the idea originated at the school during a visit last year.  

PLAYGROUND CONSULTATION IN FURNESS VALE

Following the news that we have secured an extra £200,000 for playground across the High Peak, and the agreement of a schedule, I visit Furness Vale school to talk to the children about the improvements. We need to make sure that we get the improvements right and dont just foist what we think on the people who will be using them. A visit to the scholl is just the first part of this consultation.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING - SITE VISITS

I am looking at proposals for affordable housing on Granby Rd. in Fairfield. Several developers have expressed an interest. Whilst looking at the written submissions is fine, I prefer to see actually what it it they will be building. I want to look at quality and sizes. Today I am visiting examples built by the bidders so that I can make a better more informed decision when the time comes. So many people say to me that the prices of houses are too high. Local people want to stay in the area when they look to buy their first house but it is becoming increasingly more difficult to do. That is why affordable housing is so important. Those of us who have been on the housing ladder for some years must not forget that others want to get on it, and we must try to help them as much as we can in the present economic climate

CONSERVATIVE NATIONAL AWARDS

My e-book for students has been shortlisted for a National Award by the Party. The winners were announced tonight so, accomapnied by the High Peak Conservative Association Chairman, John Haken, I went to the ceremony. Unfortunately we didnt win the award but it was nice to recognised for our efforts. There were some high quality entries so we were in good company. We got to have ahcat with David Cameron about the e-book too.

CHARLESWORTH ISSUES

I pride myself in being available for as many people as possible whenever they need me. FOllowing representations from people in Charlesworth I go to the village to look at issues around traffic and also the general street scene. We have a long detailed discussion during which I witness the problems with traffic in the village. It is always a difficult problem i n small viollages as people are so reliant on their cars nowadays.

WHITFIELD

A meeting in Whitfield to discuss their proposed Multi User Games Area. I was especialy impressed by this group due to the involvement of the young people of the area. Many of these committees very often dont have enough young people on them. This was an exception; there were several teenagers at the meeting and also playing an active part in helping the project come to fruition. Play areas fall within my portfolio and its very heartening to see such community involvement in the idea.

GLOSSOP COFFEE CLUB

A new Coffee Club has started in the town. Meeting on the 2nd Friday of each month at Windy Harbour, everyone is welcome. Coffee and cakes are served before listening to the speaker of the day. At its inaugural meeting, I have the pleasure of being the speaker for the day. After speaking for approx imately half an hour, I take another hour of questions on all sorts of issues, both local and national. The next meeting is on Friday 14th March, please feel free to go along. For details of speakers at this and the Buxton Coffee Club check out our events page.   

NORTHERN ROCK - GOVERNMENT FIASCO

Alistair Darling has announced that the Government are going to nationalise Northern Rock. The Government have completely lost their way. They dallied last Autumn over this issue because they were contemplting going to the country, they have continued to dally and now they have saddled us all with the debt. They are now running a bank as well as the country !

ELECTION DAY

Today's the day. Visit as many polling stations as possible, make sure we get our supporters through the polling stations too - it will be a very late night tonight !

ANDREW BINGHAM MP

We won ! Seem to have been on the go ever since the result was announced. We won with a majority ofover 4000 ! I am still in a state of shock, but feel unbelievably proud to have been elected as the MP for the High Peak after all these years. The blog may not get updated as regularly over the next few days as there are so many things I need  to attend to. I will report back though whenever I can.

ORGANISED GRAFFITI

The Council in conjunction with a company called Spearfish have provided a day for local youngsters to get involved with painting areas on skateborad parks at Manor Park in Glossop and Cote Heath in Buxton. Visiting Glossop today and Buxton tomorrow I can see not only the enthusiasm of the youngetsr for this idea but also a lot of talent amongst them.

VISIT OF SHADOW AGRICULTURE MINISTER, JAMES PAICE MP

Conservative Shadow Minister, James Paice MP is visiting the High Peak today. Following a talk with a local farmer and businessman involved in farming issues, Jim and I go on to a NFU meeting where Jim talsk to several local farmers befor etaking questions from them. It is a lively debate with many thought provoking questions.

GLOSSOPDALE GOVERNORS

Having agreed to join the school's Board of Governors I am going through a steep learning curve as to how school such as this operate. I enjoy the meetings, but look forward to becoeming more knowledgeable on the subject to enable me to play a more active part in the meetings. At the moment I am wrestling with the acronyms alone !

ITS QUIZ TIME

A quiz for the Mayor charity. As part of fellow Cllr. and Deputy Mayor, Robin Baldry's team, we enter hopeful of victory. Unfortunately it was not to be ! I blame Robin, funnily enough he blamed me. Either way a good time was had by all, and cash was raised for the Mayors charity.

SHADWO PENSIONS MINISTER - CHRIS GRAYLING MP

Conservative Shadow Pensions Minister, Chris Grayling is in the High Peak as I continue to fight for whatever I can get for the victims of the T&N pensions collapse. More of this is on the news pages of the website, but i want my Parliamentary colleages in London to remain aware that there may be toher avenues open to these people that give a better deal than the PPF. Chris listens attentively to the points made by the action group, and goes away with several actions planned as a result of the meeting

MORE AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR HIGH PEAK PEOPLE

Part of my Portfolio on the Council is affordable housing. Today I have visited two sites. One in Whaley Bridge and another in Hadfield. Housing available for rent and shared equity will be availabel on both sites. I have made my position clear on this issue. I feel that people want to be able to have a stake in the property they live in. With house prices so high it is difficult to make it truly affordable. Consequently, I am a great believer of shared equity, where people can buy a portion of their home. I am convinced that this gives them that first vital step on the housing ladder at an affordable price. Do you agree ? Please send me your thoughts.

VISION BUXTON

Having ben invitd to a networking lunch by Vision Buxton, I meet several local busines people who views I am always interested to hear. The new Chief Executive of the Council, Simon Baker is the speaker, and it is interesting to hear the range of questions answered by Simon

CONCESSIONARY TRAIN FARES

The Governments plnas for free public transport for people has resulted in a reduced service being threatened for High Peak residents. DCC already operates a schmm that is superior in mny ways to that promised by the Government. The issue that has concerned people most is the loss of reduced fares on rail travel. I have organised a meeting with Cllr. Andrew Lewer the Conservative leader on DCC to dicsuss what we can do to ensure that DCC continue to offer this service. Attended by Conservative County Cllrs. from the High Peak Cllrs. Baldry, Critchlow & Wharmby, Andrew reasurs me that the Conservativs are doing all they can to make the County Council kep this valuable offer.

BUDGET MEETING OF COUNCIL

At what is probably the most significant meting of the year of the full council, the budget is debated. As the controlling group we have proposed a Council tax increase of just 3% - well below the rate of inflation. After some debate and discusion the increase is approved. Taken in context of our minimal increase in Governemtn contribution, 3% is a real acheivment.

HAREHILLS PARK, GLOSSOP

Following the park clean up several weeks ago, I and volunteers return to plant over 3000 bulbs to give it a splash of colour. Working with a group of scouts we get them planted double quick time. When these flower they will look fabulous. I work with a young man called Ashley who astounds me with his knowledge of history - I wish we had had him at the recent mayors quiz - we would definitely have won, Im sure.

AMBULANCE IN GLOSSOP SAVED

GREAT NEWS !  Following reports recently there was a very real concern that Glossop could face losing its Ambulance cover in favour of an Emergency Care Practioner. Thsi decision has now en reversed following 'local mdia and Councillor pressure'. I wrote the very day I heard of the proposals expresing my grave concern at the proposals. It looks like those concerns have ben listened to. Also Glossop gets to keep the ECP as well !

REUSABLE CARRIER BAGS AVAILABLE NOW !

Following news that retailers are now beginning to charge for carrier bags, I have obtained some reusable bags that people can collect from him free of charge. One of my colleagues in Leicestershire has had these available for some time now and they have proved a great success. I met with him last week and brought back a small quantity that people in the High Peak are welcome to have. I hope to have another delivery soon. People can collect them from my office in Buxton or contact me by phone or email. There is a national mood to reduce the amount of plastic we use and shopping bags form a large part of that usage. Hopefully these jute bags will help here in the High Peak.

MP VOTES AGAINST REFERENDUM ON EU TREATY

Whilst I am not unduly surprised, I am very disappointd to se that he local MP has votd against the Conservative amendment for a referedum on the proposed EU reform treaty. All forms of survey and polling indicate a huge swell of public opinion sating that they beoiev we should have that referendum. yet again our MP has ignored the wishes of his electorate

MERCIAN REGIMENT - FREEDOM OF THE BOROUGH

Following a resolution made by High Peak Borough Council the freedom of the Borough is beign awarded to the Mercian Regiment. The old Sherwood Foresters enjoyed this privilege but as they have become absorbed into other regiments it is only correct that the honour is conferred on the new larger Regiment. Having just returned from tours of Afghanistan it is a salutory experience speaking to soldiers hwo been on the front line. The closest many of us get to this is via our television sets. Regardless of our respective views of whether or not we should be involved in such conflicts, there can be no doubt as to the bravery and courage of these men ! 

GOOD NEWS ON RAIL FARES

It today appears likely that DCC are to maintain the concessionary rail fares despite the Goverments best efforts to scupper the exisiting Gold Card scheme. I and my colleagues in Matlock have received many letters about this so its good news that the arrangements have been retained. Following the about turn recently on ambulance services in Glossop this is two excellent results we have acheived in a very short space of time. It make me relich what I could do for the area if I was the Member of Parliament ! 

GATESHEAD - SPRING FORUM

The Conservative Spring Forum is in Gateshead, not a City I know well. Its an ideal opportuinty to catch up with Parliamentary colleagues, discuss the polticial situation. For me its a perfect chance to raise High Peak issues with senior Members of the Shadow cabinet. 

POST OFFICE DEBATE - THIS WEEK

There is a Conservative led debate this coming Wednesday when we wil be proposing a halt to the Governments Post Office closure programme. Mp's of all party's have professed their opposition to these closures, I hope that they se it through and support the Conservatives. I will obviously watch to see what Mr. Levitt does

SPORT RELIEF

The Council has organised two sport relief miles in the Borough today. One in Buxton and one in Glossop. I went to both events, walking the Buxton course first before heading over to Manor Park in Glossop. In Glossop I was met by High Peak Mayor Jean Wharmby and husband George. (pictured)

FLAGG RACES

The annual point to point races take place at Flagg. A tradition on the day after Easter Monday (depite the Governments best efforts!), the event always exepriences a wide variety of weather conditions depending on the time of year. This year it is particularly cold, but along with my colleague on HPBC, Emily Thrane we brave the elements, very much due to Emily's excellent catering arrangements.

NEW CHIEF CONSTABLE OF DERBYSHIRE

Following the retirement of David Coleman, Mick Creedon has been appointed the new Chief Constable of Derbyshire. My support of the police is well documented, and I wrote to The Chief soon after his appointment asking to meet him. We discussed a wide variety of issues affecting the High Peak and the Country generally. We are lucky to live in a relatively low crime area within the High Peak and we should acknowledge the effotrs of the police in maintaining that.

QUIZ NIGHT FOR NEW MILLS VOLUNTEER CENTRE

For the last 2 or 3 years, I and my fellow COnservative Councillor, Tony Ashton have set a quiz for NMVC. This is a fun night out and a good fund raiser to boot. This year is the best ever with more teams attending. Tony & I secured £10,000 for the Centre ;ast year following news that they were to lose some grant funding in favour of the London 2012 Olympics.

BURRFIELDS ROAD, CHAPEL - EMISSIONS

I and residents of of Burrfields and neighbouring streets are still working to reduce the unidentfied emissions plagueing their houses. We are delaing with local factories and the Environment Agency as we try to pin point and then eradicate this problem. On visitng a resident, we look at the latest results to monitor progress. It is a frustrating issue and is taking longer than I would like to solve. 

SUPPORTING PEOPLE / WHITFIELD / SIMMONDLEY

First thing a meeting of Supporting People Commissioning Body in Matlock discussing things that are being doen to help people across the High Peak and Derbyshire. Following that meting its off to WHitfiels and Simmondley to look at the proposed sites for the two Multi User Games Areas suggested for these two areas.

BUXTON FESTIVAL LAUNCH

Along with several other Councillors I attend the official launch of this years Buxton Festival. As ever there is a wide range of producytions on offer. Well worth a visit. Check out their website www.buxtonfestival.co.uk for more details. I would encourgae anyone reading this to visit Buxton. The festival receives universal acclaim acros the country, coem and see what the fuss is all about !

AN EVENING WITH MICHAEL PORTILLO

Appearing at Buxton Opera House, Michael talks about his times in politics and his subsequent career as a broadcaster. Following this he takes question from the audience. Several friends an collegaues from High Peak Conservatives are in audience to listen to what is a fascinating evenings entertainment.

MP FAILS TO SUPPORT POST OFFICES IN CONSERVATIVE DEBATE

Following on from by earlier blog, I can now report that the local MP FAILED to support the Conservative proposals to halt the Post Office closure programme. Go to the news section for more details

RENTS SERVICE - HOUSING BENEFITS RATES

As you will see form articles in the news section there is a big issue over area rents and housing benefits levels. I am absolutely furious with The Rents Service. I have tried repeatedly to get them to come the APril meeting of the Social Inclusion Select Committee of the Council on April 14th. Thye continue to refuse point blank! WHat chance has democracy when these people refuse to come and speak to ELECTED Councillors to tell us what the situation is and what we can do. It typifies the way that the country is being run in a centralist top down manner. Many things in politics make me frustrated and annoyed - this attitude has made me angry beyond belief. So much so I will not put any more in the blog today for fear of using 'unparliamentary language' ! ! ! 

CANCER SELF HELP GROUP

I have been invited to the furst meeting of a new self help group being set up in Buxton. There were only a few of us there but I hope that as it progresses then the group will grow. Groups like this can provide and enormous source of help and comfort to not only cancer sufferers but also their families as they fight the disease and its symptons.

ASSAYING IN BIRMINGHAM

A day away from politics. As well as my Council work and that of Parliamentary Candidate, I work as an assayer. This is interesting as it enables me to get into companes and industry. The things I learn are very often useful in my political roles. Today it i smy job to supervise the loading of Aluminium scrap for recycling. As the price of metal continues to rise, so does its scrap value. I notice every time I do this work how the security at these sites increase as their stocks become ever more valuable

STOCKPORT HOMES

As part of the study we are undertaking into the way in which High Peak Community Housing operates, I and my colleagues Cllr.s Robin & Linda Baldry and Cllr. Chris Webster today visit Stockport Homes to see how they operate. As an ALMO they have a lots in common with HPCH and the visit is not only interesting but provides a valuable insight into things that we can look at for HPCH

RENT SERVICE AGREE TO REVIEW

Following a flurry of emails, I have not got the assurance from The Rent Service that they will undetake a prompt review into the decision to include Glossopdale with NE Manchester for Local Reference Rents. This decision is causing huge worries across the area amongst those people who are the most vulnerable. There is more on this on out news pages.

MEETING WITH RENT SERVICE

The Rent Service attend the meeting with Officers of HPBC and also Members to discuss the situation regarding Local Reference Rents. I invited Members of all Political Parties to demonstrate that I am intent on working towards a solution and not making political capital out of what is a very serious problem for many people in and around Glossop. I was impressed that the Deputy Chief Executive himself came from London to the meeting. The discussions were very productive and the Rent Servie Officers were made very aware of the posiiton. They repeated their early assurances given to me that they would review the situation as a priority 

ST GEORGES DAY PARADE

Despite the torrential rain, the St. Georges Day parade through Buxton is a well attended event with Scout troops from across the Borough in attendance. Following the parade there are speeches and presentations in the Dome in Buxton. I along with the Mayor. Cllr. Jean Wharmby accompanied by her consort George march with the scouts.

WARD ISSUES - BURRFIELDS ROAD

A visit to a resident on Burrfields in Chapel to check on the continuing problems regarding emissions being experienced by the neighbourhood. There does seem to be some improvment, but it is too early to say that the problem has gone away. I will continue to work with the residents to monitor the situation and work towards a solution

PRIDE OF WHITFIELD

This is a great community group who are working hard to raise funds for a new allwether surface play area in Whitfield. The thin that impresses me particularly is the involvement of young people. They occupy all the committee places and adults are their purely to guide and advise. They have already raised a lot of the money they need, they are awaiting a decision from the Football Foundation on the rest

THORNSETT SCHOOL

A visit to Thornsett school to discuss the fact that they have been left out of proposals for new schools in Derbyshire. Thornsett does really well but the premises are completely unsuitable. They in no way meet any diability criteria for access. Both myself and my colleague and ward Councillor Tony Ashton got involved with the school a couple of years ago when we were led to belive that they were a priority for a new school. It has come as a hammer blow that they are not on the list in the present consultation

FREE SCHOOL BUSES IN GLOSSOP

Following representations from local residents, I walk the route from Shirebrook estate to the Hadfield campus of Glossopdale Community College. Derbyshire County Council have doen some restoration work on a footpath making it, in their eyes, a suitable route for children to walk to school. By using this path the route is now less than 3 miles making the children from Shirebrook ineligible for free bus travel to and from school. I have concerns over the safety of the footpath in the winter months when short days mean that children travel to and from school in the dark.

POST OFFICE DISCUSSIONS

Over the last few weeks I have been meeting with postmasters across the High Peak to discuss the impending announcement regarding closures. I would like to stres here that I have not sought to obtain any privileged information, nor have I been offered it. What I have sought to do is to speak to the Post Offices about their hopes and fears for the future and how they believe the network should be taken forward in the bet economical way without the wholesale decimation that this Government seem hell bent on !

ANNUAL MEETING OF HIGH PEAK BOROUGH COUNCIL

Following Cllr. John Faulkner's decision to stand down as Council Leader, tonight's meeting is when a successor is chosen. At the meeting Cllr. Tony Ashton was elected as Council Leader with Emily Thrane as his Deputy. John has done a great job and we are all looking forward to building on the foundations already laid

PLAY CONSULTATION IN HADFIELD

We are spending a lot of money upgrading play facilities across the Borough. Tonight we held a consultation evening in Hadfield. It was very well attended particularly by young people who gave us some real food for thought as to how we can improve the facilities on offer 

EMERGENCY SERVICES DAY

I attend the Emergency Services Day in Buxton. All the services are represented and lots of people attend to watch demonstrations and visit the stands that the Police, Fire etc have set up in the Pavilion Gardens.

GLOSSOP HOUSING BENEFIT LEVELS

Having secured the agreement of The Rent Service to a review, I have meetings with officials from HPBC to discuss the way the this is going to work and the best way to secure a swift and beneficial result for our residents here in the High Peak.

GLOSSOP AREA FORUM

As with the other Forums the subject is on planning and development for the area in the future. Whilst the subject may seem very dry it is a crucial debate as we look forward to where we can develop houses for future generations. This exercise is an opportunity for people to have their say and help to ensure that we make the right decisions for the area and its residents

HADFIELD SORTING OFFICE

I have been contacted by residents of Hadfield following news that the sorting office at Hadfield Post Office has been threatened with closure. This is separate to the Post Office closure programme which is closing thousands of Post Offices across the country. The programme is due to announce its proposals for the High Peak on June 10th.

CREWE & NANTWICH

The result in Crewe and Nantwich shows an enormous swing to the Conservatives. I helped in Crewe for a couple of days and the feedback was very good, however I never dreamt that Edward would get such a huge majority. Well done to all ! It clearly shows that people are not just fed up with the Labour Government, but also are now seeing the Conservatives as the Party with all the ideas to tackle the problems facing Britain today

THE RENT SERVICE

Continuing to work for housing benefit recipients in the Glossop area who are hit by recent changes. I and officers of HPBC have a meeting with officers from The Rent Service to discuss the forthcoming review and how it will work. We need to ensure that we get our point across that this decision has hit people hard in the Glossop area.

HADFIELD SORTING OFFICE

Accompanied by local Conservative Councillor, Peter Kay, I go to Hadfield Post Office to meet with Mr. Daljitkur to discuss the threatened closure of their sorting office. The decision to me seems somewhat short sighted and whilst ther ewill be the opportunity for people to collect unde;livered parcels from the office following the closure, there is no guarantee how long this will be available for. Also it will mean staff travelling to and fro from the sorting office in Hyde at unreasonable times. Likewise it threatens the livelihood of Mrs. Daljitkur and her family. Whilst there we also have discusions with postmen who will be affected by these changes 

HYDRO EQUIPMENT DELIVERED TO NEW MILLS

The New Mills Hydro project takes a big step forward to day when the archimedean scrw unit is delivered on to site. at 22ft long and weighing 11 tons it is an impressive operation is it is lowered down from the road above. This is a great project that has the support of all. I visitd the site with Peter Ainsworth MP when the idea was in its infancy. I look forward to the day when the electricity begins to flow from this unit

MAYORS CIVIC SERVICE

Mayor Robin Baldry holds his Civic Service today. Preceded by a mayoral parade, the service is held at St. Johns church. An excellent service to a packed church. Reading the second lesson at Robin's request, I am pleased to see faces of many Conservative colleagues from HPBC. A selection of stirring hymns, a delightful address from Rev. Hughton, the service is one to remember.

POST OFFICE CLOSURES ANNOUNCED

In the ofice for 6am today hoping to see the proposals for Post Office closures posted on the website, I am disappointed to see that I am a bit early. However they do eventually appear and they propose the closure of 5 Post Offices across the High Peak. There is plenty of information on the site on this, but people must take the opportunity to comment during the consultation which is too short in my opinion at 6 weeks.

42 DAYS WITHOUT TRIAL

Today sees the vote on the Governments intentions to extend the right to hold suspect without trial to 42 days. This means that someone could be held for 6 weeks without any knowledge of why they are being held. This concerns me as I think 42 days seem too long and unnecessary, even when faced with the terrorist threats of today

VISIT TO NEW MILLS DOCTORS

Accompanied by Mark Simmonds, Shadow Health Minister, I have been to see the Doctors at the Sett Valley practice to talk about their ideas for a Out of Hospital Care Project. I have seen the proposals, but I thought it would be useful for Mark to speak to the Doncotrs to not only hear about their ideas for the project, but also to give them the opportuinty to voice their fears and concerns over the health service. Their project is very exciting and whilst still being only in the early stages, it would provde and excellent facility for residents in the central area of the High Peak.

Tags: New Mills Health

HOLIDAY TIME

A weeks holiday now beckons. The weather looks good and as every year we will be taking a week off near Blackpool, but we are hoping to go to Scotland for a few days during the week. Scanning websites for B&B's near Loch Lomond and Oban. Watch this space !!

UK HOLIDAYS - DEFINITELY TO BE RECOMMENDED

As the economy worsens and money becomes ever shorter, I can recommend holidaying in the UK following my own holiday in Lancashire and Scotland. Using Bed and Breakfasts in Scotland, we had a great time taking in the breathtaking scenery of Scotland. A night on Loch Fyne followed by 2 nights in Oban gave us a real break. The highlight was to see an Eagle in flight on the Isle of Mull and a stag in the wild. Like many I have been a regular holidayer abroad, and whilst foreign climes can offer attractions, some of the finest views are in this Country. I hope that the UK tourist industry gets a boost this year as more and more people will probably look to stay nearer to home for their holidays. Despite all the fantastic scenery we have seen, our own local area still matches anything else anywhere.

BUSY BUSY BUSY !! - ALL IN A DAYS WORK

A weeks holiday inevitably creates a back log of work to catch up on. Having more or less done that, then today is a series of meetings and engagements. First off at 7.45am is an interview at High Peak Radio. Then off to Leek for a meeting with my equivalent at Staffordshire Moorlands Council, Cllr. Gill Burton. Back to Buxton to catch up on the post. At 3pm a visit to the Barlow Hunt to their annual puppy event. Interesting to note that depsite the hunting ban the hunt continues as an entity that is strong and committed. From there to Phillip Howard School following an invitation to their 'Who Do We Think We Are' event. Fascinating to see how the pupils view the area and its problems and their perceptions of what could be done. The teacher Cara Anderson has done a great job here, and I was also pleased to present the prizes to the winning team in the quiz 

Next appointment is to speak to the user groups of Buxton Pool to explain the changes and improvements we are hoping to make to the facility. I am determined that we keep communicating with users at every point so that everyone knows and understands what the Council are trying to do and that we all want to work together as much as possible. Following the pool users briefing it is a meeting in Buxton for local Conservatives where I have been asked to give a briefing on the General Election and its probable date.

My final appointment is at Buxton Football Club where they are playing Barnsley in the first pre season friendly. This is my first chance to eat in the day - at 8.30pm! Another busy day but very rewarding and hugely enjoyable - I like to be busy !! 

Tags: Education Buxton

EUROPEAN ELECTION COUNT

Back to the Octagon again in Buxton, this time for the counting of the votes for the European Elections. The High Peak is part of the East Midlands so our count results will be fed into the central East Midlands count from where the results will be declared. Some time after we have finished in the High Peak, it is declared that the Conservative will retain 2 MEPs despite the East Midlands' representation dropping from 6 to 5. Roger Helmer stays on and my good friend and colleague Emma McClarkin will occupy the second berth. Tags: European Elections

KINDER CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT

The annual Kinder Choir concert in Chapel Methodist Church is up to the usual fantastically high standard. In days when young people seem to get so much bad press, it is heartening to see the great work done with the Choir by Joyce Ellis. Jayne and I are both patron's of the choir and are proud to be so. It is always this event that is the first to get me in the Christmas mood.

GLOSSOP RENTS - SOLUTION IN SIGHT ?

In accordance with their promises made to me, The Rent Service have agreed to review the local reference rent situation in the area as a matter of urgency. They promised that the High Peak would be top of their list once they had dealt with the Sheffield area in response to the recent Heffernen court case and they have now confirmed that to be the case. The sooner the better as people are hurting, particularly in the Glossop area !

DERBY UNIVERSITY FRESHERS FAIR

Its the day that new students coming to the Buxton campus of Derby University can look round the various stands to see what is on offer in the town. I have booked a stand so that students can meet me and also they can be aware of the Conservative presence in the town. We have a lot of interest on the stand and the whole day is spent in conversation with the students on a range of subjects. I think they are surpised to see us there as much as anything.

GLOSSOP AREA FORUM

As my colleagues, Cllrs. George Wharmby & Peter Kay are both otherwise indisposed tonight, I have offered to step in and chair the Glossop Area Forum where the subject for discussion is Council Tax and how we should prioritise the Councils spending. Despite a small attendance, it is a useful exercise as we can take the information to help us line up our priorities with those of our residents

MOORLAND MANAGEMENT

I have been invited on to Moscar Moor for a presentation on moorland management and how this helps the scenery and economy of the High Peak. Whilst Mocar Moor is just outside the constituency it is typical of much of the moorland of the High Peak. Many people think that the moors around us just happen and look like they do through acts of nature alone. Nothing can be further from the truth. It takes many hours over years and years of careful nurturing to ensure that they provide a home to a balanced array of wildlife which itself helps to preserve the moors as we see them. The presentation is fascinating, but with so much detail to absorb, I think I ned to speak further to the experts to gain a fuller understanding of the moors.

CHARITY AUCTION - THE ROYAL OAK, CHAPEL

The local school in Chapel has organised an auction in aid of chairty in the name of one of the teachers who sadly dies recently. I have agreed to ccok a meal for 4 people in their own home for whoever bids the most. The offer sold for £60 and the night overall looked to be going well, and a good sum looked on the cards.

THORNSETT SCHOOL

Thornsett School is crying out for renewal. Its a great little school hampered by its buildings. I take Cllr. Andrew Lewer, Conservative Leader on Derbyshire County Council to see the school. This appointment was made when the school wasnt included as a possible case for a new school by DCC. I had visited the school on my own some time ago, but I thought that Andrew needed to see the problem for himself. In the intervening time, the school has now been added to the list. We now need to fight to drive it up the list as high as we can.

GLOSSOP SAILING CLUB

Following the awarding of a grant to Glossop Sailing Club by High Peak Borough COuncil, they invited me up to try my hand at windsurfing. It's not something I have ever tried before but I am interested to see the club and what it does. Hving looked round the club and listened to the things they offer, I am very impressed with the range of sports available on the water. There seems to be a good friendly atmosphere, and yet again there are so many people who give their time freely to make it all happen. The only downside of the day, apart from getting very wet as I continually keep falling off the board, is that I dont look good in a wet suit !

HAYFIELD SHEEPDOG TRIALS

Another great turn out for the annual Hayfield sheepdog trials. This year to add a little fun, there is a competition to guess the weight of the Mayor, Cllr. Robin Baldry. All the proceeds go to the Mayor charity. It's good of the Mayor to enter into the spirit of things in this way to raise some money for good causes

CHANGE TO HEALTH PROVISION IN BUXTON AREA ?

The PCT tonight launch their initial consultation on changing the delivery of health provision in the Buxton area. The public meeting held at the Octagon was attended by several Councillors but I was surprised at the lack of members of the public present. This could mean a radical change for Buxton and the surrounding area in terms of hospital provision, and I thought it may well have caused more of a stir. Perhaps when the options are presented in the New Year there may be more feedback from residents. If you want to know more please give me a call.

MAYORAL GOLF DAY

Mayor, Cllr. Robin Baldry, is hosting his Charity Golf Day, so I go to see him tee off, and then to thepresentation in the evening. It looks like Robin has managed to raise a large amount of money for the Mayor's charity.

END OF TERM AT THORNSETT

I have been invited to the end of term tea at Thornsett school. Yet again it provides more evidence that the schoolis crying out for a new building. I will do whatever I can to help the fight for that to happen as soon as possible.

MOORLAND MANAGEMENT

Following an earlier day on the moors, I have been invited to a more in depth look at how the moorland is managed. It is an incredible place, and the views form the top are spectacular. It is however a very serious business. As we admire the scenery, it is easy to assume that it just happens to look like it does. We must remember that it takes hours of work and attention to ensure the sustainability of these moors. We must also remember that they provide a huge environmental service as they soak up carbon dioxide. I have learnt so much today about the moors and the way they are managed.

GLASGOW BY ELECTION

A truly remarkable result as Labour loses its 25th safest seat in the country to the SNP. It will provoke turmoil in the Labour Party as the future of Gordon Brown will be called into question

PUBLIC MEETING ON GLOSSOP RENT LEVELS

As part of the consultation on Housing Benefit levels in Glossop following The Rent Service decision to include Glossopdal in with NE Manchester, I have asked that a meeting of interested parties be convened by the Council. (more on this subject on the news pages). The meeting is well attended with useful contributions coming from both tenants and landlords alike. A good representation of Councillors are present. We can only hope that we can effect a change of mind from TRS.  

COURT RULING ON RENTS !

I have been told of the ruling in the Heffernen case on Local Reference Rents. The full information is on the news page, but I know one thing, it will be devastating news for those effected in Glossop. It effectively means that the present process is null and void. We will have to wait longer now before we can get any change from TRS. The one thing that slightly encourages me is that the Heffernen ruling may add strength to our case when the opportunity arises. On receipt of the news my first action is to get hold of TRS. Late afternoon  I have secured a guarantee that High Peak will be the first area after Sheffield (Heffernen) to be looked at.

IS MILLIBAND PITCHING FOR THE TOP JOB ?

David Milliband has written an article for a national newspaper. He does not mention Gordon Brown in the article yet he claims that it isnt a pitch for the Prime Ministers job !  Time will tell, but I think he may be eyeing a leadership challenge in the Autumn. Its  a shame that with the country reeling from one economic blow after another, they cant concentrate on that rather than their own personal priorities. It would be easier just to call a General Election.

HIKE 2008 - SETTING OFF

We're off on this year's charity hike. Look for picutres on the Photo Gallery page. As we climb Kinder Scout the weather gets progressively worse. I am surprised how many fellow walkers there are up here. We are properly equipped with waterproofs, maps, compasses, lights and whistles. More tyhan can be said for one family who we meet. They are ill prepared and lost. They wlak with us for a while until we direct them down to Edale where they want to go. AT the summit, the hail is horizontal, the widn fierce and the visiblity poor. The we move on to mam Tor where the conditions arent quite so bad, but still none too pleasant. Emma and I agree, if we weren't walking for charity then it would have been very easy to turn back !

HIKE 2008 - DAY 2

The weather is much improved, although it is quite windy. We have the welcome relief of bacon sandwiches provided to us halfway up Combs Moss by friends, Wendy & Andrew. That extra bit of sustenance fires us up to the top. Today is a lot easier than yesterday especially as the weather is drier. We reach Corbar Cross mid afternoon before being welcomed into Buxton by the Mayor, Mayoress and Leader of the Council

HIGH PEAK CANCER SUPPORT GROUP MEETING

I am attending the Groups latest meeting to update them about the walk. It appears that we have raised more than enough money for them, so we discuss donating some of the proceeds to Blythe House too. This should man that 2 Charities will get a benefit instead of just the one. The group is small but members seems in good spirit and very provide support to each other.

COMMUNITY SAFETY

Part of my role on High Peak Borough Council includes community safety. As part of that role, I join with offices in Spring Gardens to speak to people about how safe they feel. Following that I and other Councillors do a walkabout round Buxton looking at potential hotpsots for anti social behaviour.

2008 PARTY CONFERENCE

The annual Conservative party Conference is being held in Birmingham. Whilst the opinion polls are looking healthy for us as a party, it is very much tempered by the economic situation that the country finds itself in. Travelling to Birmingham on the train, I am sure that the economic circumstances will be the prominent subject of discussion during the next few days

G & S FESTIVAL DINNER

I and several of my Councillor colleagues attend a Dinner in aid of the Smiths who organise the hugely successful Gilbert & Sullivan festival that brings so much to the High peak in terms of both culture and economic benefits. Organised by the local hoteliers with the Mayor and Mayoress present, it provides for an excellent evening and an opportunity to talk to people and listen to their wishes and aspriations for Buxton and the surrounding areas

NEW CARE CENTRE IN GLOSSOP

I am attending a public meeting hosted by Tameside & Glossop PCT when they explain their plans for a new care centre in Glossop. They outline their proposals for the town, which sound very exciting. There are issues still to be dealt with in terms of access and parking, but the principle sounds good for Glossop. Whilst the concept of Polyclinics worries me as they can be remote and impersonal, a new bigger better facility for Glossop has to be welcomed at this early stage.

COMMUNITY SAFETY IN GLOSSOP

The latest in a round of Community Safety stands, this time in Glossop. Accomapnied by HPBC Officers, I meet people and listen to their fears around crime and Anti Socil behaviour. We distribute free security markers and provide valuable and reassuring advice for people. It is pleasing that whilst there are still areas of anti social behaviour, by and large people still feel safe living in the High Peak

FURNESS VALE PLAY AREA OPENS

The first play area to be refurbished under a two year programme is Furness Vale. Today marks the opening by the Mayor of the High Peak, Cllr. Robin Baldry. The refurbishment has been doen after extensive consultation with residents, and more importantly the young people who are going to us it. We have tried to deliver it to their wishes, within the budget available to us and judging by the number of children present then it looks like to may be a succcess.

NEW HOUSES IN GAMESLEY AND HADFIELD

A joint initiaitve betwen HPCH and its partners has seen the opening of 11 new affordable homes in Gamesley and Hadfield. Recently completed in the face of difficult economic circumstances, these homes are excellent. As I look round them accomapnied by the Mayor, they very much bring to mind my own first home bought many years ago. In those days property was a lot cheaper than it is today, so projects like this are vital to enable our local young people to stay within the area and live

CHAPEL WALKABOUT

Another Community Safety walkabout to identify grot spots and areas of Anti Social behaviour. This time it is the turn of Chapel-en-le-Frith. Unfortunately the weather is against us a the rain lashes down, however we manage to talk to residents and local traders who all give us food for thought.

GLOSSOP VICTORIAN WEEKEND

Accompanied by most of our Conservative Councillors from the Glossop area, I am going to the Glossop Victorian weekend. The weather manages to hold on the Saturday as we judge the victorian costumes, which were all excellent. Following that we wlak around the stalls at have a quick look in at the beer festival at The Star. It is really pleasing to see so many people attending and enjoying themselves. It is a tribute to the volunteers who all work so hard to make the event happen.

BUXTON AREA FORUM

The latest round of Area Forums begins in Buxton. The topic is Council Tax and how should the Council prioritise its resources. Unfortunately I cannot be there due to a meeting in New Mills, however I think it is important that we try to give people as mush say as possible in how their Council tax is spent.

GEORGE OSBORNE & MARC GODWIN

Following Marc's decision to leave the Liberal Democrats and lend his support to the Conservatives, we meet up with Shadow Chancellor, George Osborne for a brief chat before both marc and George depart for London. Marc's defection is a significant act on his part and one that is being repeated up and down the country. More on this story on our news pages

RE CAPITALISATION OF THE BANKS

An unscehduled speech by David Cameron in response to the Governments action to capitalise the banking sector. David states clearly that despite some reservations with the ideas, we will as a Party, support this action because now is not the time for political arguments when the very finacial fabric of the country is under threat. This is the right thing to do, however lets us not forget that no matter what Gordon Brown may have us beleive, he has been the man with his hand on the tiller for the last 11 years. A time will come when he will have to admit to his failings during those years. That time may not be now, but it will come. 

NEW MILLS QUIZ NIGHT

Along with my colleague Cllr. Tony Ashton we have set and run a quiz night on behalf of the New Mills bonfire committee. A good turnout at New Mills Town Hall sees a dozen teams battle it out over ten rounds of 10 questions each. Always popular, a quiz night is a good fund raiser for any local charity or event.

NEW TOILETS SOON FOR CHAPEL

As well as my work as Parliamentary Candidate and also Executive Member for Social & Community Development, I never forget that my first loyalty is to the people of Chapel West who elected me as their Councillor. After many years it looks like the toilets on the Market Place are set to be refurbished very soon. Following consultation with the Chapel Regeneration Committee they will be re configured to a unisex toilets and also a men only set on urinals alongside. My fellow Chapel West councillor Stewart Young and I are pictured outside the toilets

BUXTON SUB AQUA CLUB

Following on from my visit to Glossop Sailing Club, I was also asked to go to Buxton Sub Aqua Club to look at what they do. Likewise I was imilarly impressed with the club and its enthusiasm. They offered me a try dive which I was delighted to accept. It was great fun and thanks to Dawn Richardson who was assigned to keep an eye on me, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The picture is me - promise !

HIGH PEAK SCOUTS

I was happy to accept an invitation from the local Scouts to meet them and listen to their plans for the future of scouting in the south of the High Peak. I had a very good reminisce with soem about my time in 1st Chapel Scouts many years ago.

MAYOR FOR A DAY

As part of local democracy week, the mayor Cllr Robin Baldry has appointed a Mayor for the Day and conducted a question and asnwer session in the Council Chamber for local school children. Giann the Mayor looked resplendant in his robes, whilst the children asked some good penetrating questions of myself and fellow Councillors

HIGH PEAK SPORTS AWARDS

This is the night when the Council awards local Sportsmen and women for their acheivements in their chosen sports. There are several award given for all sorts of categories including coaching and voluntary work with sports clubs. Held at the Paxton Suite in Buxton it is a great occasion that everyone seemed to enjoy. After the Mayor has presented the awards in the first half, I was honoured to present the second half awards and then make the closing speech. I hope that we can make this a regular event in the High Peak calendar and the awarda gain more stature and kudos as the years roll by.

THE BIG DELIVERY !

Along with other political parties, we are often criticised for nto communicating with people except for at election times. This weekend we hope to put that right as we set about distributing our post conference leflet and also many ofour Councillors are putting out their own InTouch's. Please let us know what you thought of the leaflets, and if we missed you out then please accept our apologies, but do let us know so that we can make sure yo uget your copy

GLOSSOP & HADFIELD PENSIONERS

Following a recent invitation I went to speak to the Glossop & Hadfield Pensioners. We had a wide ranging discussion about Conservative policies and what we would do to address specific issues raised by the group. We discussed things ranging from pensions, benefits through to transport problems

REMEMBERANCE DAY

I have been invited to the unveiling of a Memorial Plaque at Buxton Community School to former pupils who lost their lives in the war. The event was tremendously dignified and I was extremely impressed in the pupils who were involved in the service. They gave recitals and presentations around soldiers wartime experiences. This was followed by the last post at 11am and a reading of students reasons why they wanted to be involved in what was a very moving ceremony.

MANOR PARK BOWLING CLUB

Congratulations to Manor Park Bowling Club in becoming the first Cron Green bowling club in the country to be awarded Clubmark. I was privileged to be asked to present tha award to Dave Collier from the club. The event combined with the Club's own prize giving ceremony took place at Whitfield Working Mens Club who put on a fine spread for all who attended. The Club imprees me in the work they do with young people proving that the young and the elderlt are NOT incompatible and that they can get on together and play together. Well done all the the Club.

CHARITY QUIZ - BLYTHE HOUSE

Once a year along qwith my wife Jayne we run a quiz night on behalf of Blythe House. Tonigh we held it actually at Blythe House for the first time. It was a great succes with over 20 teams participating. I think the move to Blythe was a great idea as it gave many people their first chance to see what a fantastic facility it is and where the money we raise actually goes.

CHARITY MEAL

Avid followers of the blog (are there any out there) will know that I recently offered to cook a meal for four people in their own home as a lot in a charity auction. It sold for over £60 and tonight is the night for the meal. I hope that I gave value for money and the genrous people who bought the lot seemed to enjoy the food I prepared.

EDINBURGH

Every year I take a trip from High peak Conservatives to visit a Parliament building. We have ben to Brussels, Strasbourg, Westminster. This year it was the turn of the Scottish Parliament building in Edinburgh. It is well documented that the Parliament was built at a cost of over £400 million against an original budget of  £40 million. Whilst the building may be impressive from an architecturla point of view, the overspend is horrific and my own view is that the whole thing is obscene when you look at the way the money has been spent. It could have been put to much better use in my view !

PRE BUDGET REPORT

The Chancellor's Pre Budget Report was announced yesterday. He is planning to borrow more money than all previous Governments put together. The debt will have to be repaid and it will have to be repaid by you and I ! It will mean that the Government will be spending more servicing this debt than they are spending on education! The short term measures which amount to £20 billion in TEMPORARY tax giveaways are dwarfed by the PERMANENT tax rises. I dont think the VAT reduction will do anything other than create an administrative headache for businesses who are struggling enough as it is ! Will it ncrease consumer spending ? You tell me - if something for £100 is suddenly £2.50 cheaper will you run out and buy it ? Another question - if you are a retailer who has just printed your latest catalogue with, say a television at £235. Will you reprint your catalogue with it at £230 ? I doubt it. Will you instead, leave it at £235 and send £30.65 vat to the Treasury instead of £35.00. 

This whole report is a flawed plan that hopes to save the Government's skin at the next election. 

PUBS UNDER THREAT

See the information on the news pages, but it has become apparent that there has been an about face on the impact of the smoking ban on our Pubs. At first it was said that it did not constitute grounds for a review of a pub's business rates, now however - very quietly ! - that position has been changed. Pubs are closing at an alarming rate across the country, particularly in rural areas. Any reduction in their overheads will help, I shall write to every pub in the area to tell them of this change. (Should I declare an interest thought?)

CONGESTION CHARGE GETS THE THUMBS DOWN

The people of Manchester have resoundly rejected the proposed Congestion Charge for the city. I think this is the right decision. Here in High Peak we weren't given the chance to vote, however I thought then and still do that there was nothing in it for us, in fact it would have had a negative impact on High Peak residents. More details of this are on the news pages, but a question that does strike me is, considering how keen Mr. Levitt and his mates were to get it through, and given the result of the referendum, it nows seems clear why they refused us a referendum on the European Constitution - they were frightened of losing !

HPBC - FULL COUNCIL MEETING

The final full council meeting of 2008. Generally it was a good natured affair. The business of the meeting followed a presentation from the Chief Constable of Derbyshire, Mick Creedon accompanied by the Chairman of the Police Authority, Janet Birkin. During the meeting we had a discussion around the new Sustainable Communities Act and a call for the COuncil to 'opt in'. This was a Conservative party Bill that went through the House of Commons. I am in favour of opting in, as indeed were the rest of the Conservative Group, however we need to know more details of what it involves in terms of resources and finance from the Council. I moved an amendment that the whole process be scrutinised in the proper way by one of our scrutiny committees, then we can make a fullyinfored decision on how we can use the act to get the best results for our residents. We will not play fast and loose with the Council Tax payers money. BY following this path we will know exactly what is requires of the Council and how we can deliver it to give the best possible outcomes for you - the resident.

CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT

The candle lit service at St. Johns church is tonight and due to illness I have ben asked to step inot the breach to read a lesson. The church looks very festive and when the lights are dimmed and the candles become the only source of light it takes on a really Christmas atmosphere.

A THOUGHT FOR CHRISTMAS

Whilst Christmas is a wonderful time for many and magical for children, I always remeber to instances from Christmas's past. In discussions with a now retired landlord of a local pub I asked him why he opened on Christmas Day evening, gently teasing him by saying that he could manage without the takings for one evening. his reply has stuck with me ever since. he said that I andmany others were very lucky in that on Christmas Day we would be in the bosom of our families, probably having dined well, been entertained by family members and children. There were however, some people who weren't so lucky - they lived alone, they had no family and would spend a Christmas Day completely alone if it weren't for the chance to go down to the pub in the evening and speak to another human being. There are many people across the world who will not have a Merry Christmas, but these people are in some ways the forgotten people of Christmas. It brings to mind another instance many years ago when I was queueing in a shop 2 days before Christmas and in front of me was an elderly lady who was buying a small half bottle of whisky. She todl the assistant that she would be at home for Christmas and this was her special treat to herself ! So when those of us who are fortunate tomorrow sit back in our chairs heave a sigh of contentment, let us remember the people who will be alone and less fortunate than us. On that note may I wish you a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

POLICE BUDGET CONSULTATION

It was my intention to attend this meeting anyway, but following representations made at the full Council meeting in December, I reinforced my resolve to go and listen to the budget challenges facing the Derbyshire Police. It was a salutory experience when you realise the different types of crime that the Police are trying to fight. As technology and the world changes, so does the types of crime that the Police have to combat. eg. the internet alone has spawned a whole new raft of criminal offences that the Police have to try to combat. I will continue to work on behalf of residents who I know are always concerned about policing levels in the High Peak. Tags: Crime

DERBYSHIRE TURNS BLUE

After a hard fought campaign, the results of our labours are that Derbyshire County Council has been taken by the Conservatives for the first time since 1981 !  Whilst I am disappointed that we didnt take seats in Whaley Bridge & New Mills we did achieve fantastic results in Glossop South and Buxton North where Jean Wharmby and Pam Reddy took seats from Labour. Tonight we will enjoy the moment - tomorrow the hard work begins ! Tags: Buxton Glossop Whaley Bridge New Mills County Council

MAYORAL CIVIC SERVICE

It is the Civic Service for this year's Mayor, Cllr. Tony Bingham (I tend to call him Dad!). I have a lesson to read, albeit the shortest of the three. My brother Ian was due to read a lesson but hasnt sufficiently recovered from his operation to be well enough. As well as a civic occasion it is a big family occasion for us as it is the first time that all our family has been together for almost 10 years.

NORTH PEAK HEALTHCARE

Responding to an invitation I today attended a meeting with doctors in Whaley Bridge. The doctors from Whaley Bridge, Chapel-en-le-Frith, New Mills & Hayfield are working on some exciting proposals for healthcare in the North High Peak area that these practices cover. It's early days yet, but I like what is proposed and I think they would benefit the residents of the towns that these doctors serve, so its watch this space ! 

Tags: Chapel-en-le-Frith New Mills Whaley Bridge Hayfield Health

PENSION PROTECTION FUND

Following earlier contacts, I have ttended a meeting with some local business people to discuss the Pension Protection Fund (PPF). The PPF was set up by the Government as a safety net for failed pension schemes, indeed it is the PPF that should hopefully be the body that guarantees the victims of the failed T&N scheme something like what they were entitled to. The PPF is a long way short of being perfect though. The issues for discussion today was the fact that the PPF is paid for via a levy placed on existing surviving funds. The discussions have highlighted to me that their levy (ie. contribution to the PPF) is increasing all the time and by unreasonable amounts. This is having a detrimental effect on businesses as they try valiantly to keep their final salary schemes going in very difficult circumstances. How long before a company has to implement redundancies to pay the PPF levy ? This is more consequences of the raid on pensions orchestrated by Gordon Brown in 1997 ! ! ! 

Tags: Pensions Local Businesses

NEWSHAW LANE - IMPROVED PLAY FACILITIES

As part of the improvements of play areas across the High Peak, the playground at Newshaw Lane has undergone improvements. The main opening took place at the end of 2008, howvere tonight was an opening for the young people who use it. There was hot chocolate being served and various other things available for young people. I attended as the Executive Councillor for Social Inclusion to look at the new equipment and see it all in action. There was a good turnout of young people and I was accompanied by Cllr. Foote and her husband Steve who is our DCC spokesperson for the area

GLOSSOP & SHIREBROOK

Following calls by residents, I have visitd two sites in Glossop today. Firstly to look at a litter problem around the KFC on Glossop Brook Road. I will look at ways of dealing with the problem, but it would be so much easier if we could get people to take their litter home. I remember the 'Keep Britain Tidy' campaign of the 1970's - we perhaps need a Keep High Peak Tidy campaign - I will get on to that.

My next appointment was to discuss developments on Shirebrook, things that have happened and any possible future ideas for the area. I have a meeitng with two local residents with particular concerns which I will try to deal with. They alerted me to a litter pick on March 7th which I have agreed to take part in

Tags: Glossop Social Action

SHADOW CABINET RESHUFFLE

So Ken Clarke is back. I do not share his views on Europe, but it cannot be denied that he is a political heavyweight, and his knowledge and experience will be invaluable in his new role. Businesses are struggling - Ken will understand this and be a good ally to David as part of the Shadow Cabinet. I am very pleased to see Chris Grayling moved to Shadow Home Secretary. I have met Chris several times and he is a first class MP and will do a great job  

BANK BAILOUT 2

Gordon Brown claimed he had saved the world, then claimed he had saved the banks. yesterday it became very clear that he had not even managed this. The second bailout seems to be an open cheque with little or no indications of the possible costs. Maybe he hasn't a clue how much it will cost. It would be better if he told us all, after all, it is us who will have to foot the bill !

Tags: National Debt

NEW PAVILION GARDENS CAFE

In 2007 when the Conservatives took control of High Peak Borough Council, we promised to look closely at the Pavilion Gardens complex. The ill fated, (and ridiculous) Food Hall proposals threw the situation into sharp focus for all the residents of the High Peak. Today saw the opening of the new Cafe as part of the refurbishment that is underway. Whilst I appreciate that the credit crunch is beginning to bite, I can really recommend the new Cafe. It offers a wide range of dishes at a wide range of prices. Something for everyone ! The new Manager, Terry Crawford is really making the place tick and deserves all the support we can give him

Tags: HPBC Buxton Pavillion Gardens

COUNCIL TAX 2009/10

At a meeting of the Executive of HPBC we discussed the proposals for the Council Tax next year. The report had already ben through the Corporate Select Committee and they asked us as an Executive to recommend a 2.5% increase for next year. The original proposals was at 3%. However we are all very aware of how the economic circumstance are beginning to hurt people so we were happy to go with this suggestion. We will propose a 2.5% increase to the meeting of the full Council in March. We would hope that all political groups could support this. Watch this space.

Tags: Recession Council Tax

HIGH PEAK CONSERVATIVES AGM

The Annual General Meeting of the High Peak Conservatives is held in Chapel-en-le-Frith. Extremely well attended, I was one of two speakers. Speaking before me was Emma McClarkin. Emma who has accompanied me on both my charity walks is one of the Conservative candidates for the European parliamentary elections in June. Emma spoke about the EU and the way forward. I followed Emma and spoke about the state of the country, the Conservative plans for the future and I speculated on the date of the General Election. Tags: Chapel-en-le-Frith

BUXTON FESTIVAL & BUXTON OPERA HOUSE

I and other Council colleagues went to an informal get together with representatives from the two organisations. We are keen to help both of them in whatever way we can. Whilst they obviously focus on Buxton, their presence in the High Peak does bring benefits across the area as people come from across the country, both to the festival and to the Opera House itself. 

Tags: Buxton

HARPUR HILL

I've been asked to go to Harpur Hill Residents Assn. to discuss the proces for the spending on the Big Lottery Grant that we have secured through HPBC to be spent on the play area. They are a really well run Association who I have met with previously. As ever I was impressed by them as a group. We had discussions around several other issues to as well as the play area. I need to find out a few things for them about the situation regarding the old college site that is concerning local residents

GLOSSOP PENSIONERS

I have been to the group before as their main speaker, but today I went along with my Borough Council colleague Peter Kay. They asked a range of searching questions of both Peter and myself. I still firmly believe that it is the duty of all elected officials and indeed candidates such as myself to go out into the community to speak and listen to people. We cannot and must not sit back and wait for them to come to us !

Tags: Pensions Glossop

CONSERVATIVE POLICY FORUM

The CPF meets to discuss various areas of policy. Members of High Peak Conservatives debate the subject of the day and feed our ideas into the Conservative policy unit in London. Tonight we debated Welfare Reform. An excellent turn out talked long and hard about what can be done and what should be done to ensure that the help needed gets to where it is needed most, and how to best deliver it. The CPF is a meeting for the real politically minded members and can often be a good opportunity to put forward ideas to where they will be looked at in greater depth

Tags: Policy

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

The delivery of affordable housing in the High Peak lies within my portfolio on the Council and it is a major priority both of the Council and myself. A special sub committee has been established within the Council to look further into how more affordable housing can be delivered. Chaired by my colleague Cllr. John Faulkner the committee are leaving no stone unturned as they investigate all available means to deliver more affordable housing in the High Peak  Tags: HPBC

GLOSSOP NORTH END

I went to watch Glossop North End in the quarter finals of the FA Vase. There was a bumper crowd who saw Glossop triumph 5-2. The match seemed tighter than the score suggests, particularly for a part of the second half when Marske United put Glossop under some pressure despite being 4-2 behind at the time. Fortunately Glossop held out and eventually popped in another goal in the dying seconds. I have watched Buxton FC for many years and am a big fan of non league football, so it was great to see so many people at the match and Glossop to run out the winners. Like most people I am crossing my fingers and hoping for a similar result in the semi final - which is a two legged affair. The final is played at the new Wembley Stadium - what better than for my first trip to the new stadium to be to see a local team !

FULL COUNCIL MEETING

Our proposals for a 2.5% Council Tax rise were approved at last night's meeting of the full High Peak Borough Council meeting. Both Labour and Liberal Demacrats opposed the budget, but noticeable neither of them had any positive suggestions to make, preferring to snipe and drag the proposal down. A key point is that is this rise were proposed under a Conservative Government it would mean a zero rise in Council Tax for people in the High Peak !!!!! 

Tags: HPBC Council Tax Labour Lib Dems

SHIREBROOK LITTER PICK

I, and my colleagues, Cllrs. George & Jean Wharmby joined the members of SEGRA (South East Glossop Residents Assn) on a liiter pick on Shirebrook Estate. It was an excellent turn out with almost 30 people getting involved. It always amazes me how much litter people leave. I discussed it with several residents and how much the Council spends on collecting litter and what could be done with that money if people didn't litter. I also discussed the Glossop rents issue with people along with many other issues of a national and local nature. Tags: Social Action Glossop

CHAPEL SCOUTS - 100 YEARS OLD !!

To celebrate 100 years of Chapel Scouts a walk was arranged from the Scout Hut to the top of Eccles Pike. I was a member of Chapel Scouts many years ago and was invited to take part. There were probably 100 people on the walk including the scouts. It was very windy at the top of the Pike where an investiture took place of scouts. (I has forgotten all about my own investiture until that point). After that we all walked back down to the Scout Hut, by which time it was quite dark.

Tags: Chapel-en-le-Frith

SIR MARTIN DOUGHTY

Today was the funeral and memorial service for Sir Martin Doughty. It would be remiss of me not to mention it. I along with many many people crowded into New Mills Town Hall for a memorial service where several people spoke with great eloquence about Martin, his life and his achievements. Martin and I obviously differed politically, but I always admired the way he worked so much for the people of New Mills. I and several of my Conservative colleagues attended the service. There are times when political differences are, and should be put aside - this was one. 

FAIR TRADE FAIR

At the last Fair Trade Fair, I not only gave a speech but also modelled Fair Trade clothing. This year I decided that modelling wasn't for me. I was asked to speak on the environment and 'going green'. Details of my speech can be found on the news page of the website. There were several stands at the Fair, all which promoting Fair Trade goods and energy saving devices. Like many people I have seen my energy bills increase drastically so I was particularly interested in any measures to make savings. I am always impressed with the organisers of the fair for the amount of effort and commitment that they put into the event.

ENTENTE FLORALE DINNER

Buxton has ben selected to represent Britain in the Entent Florale which is a European verison of Britain in Bloom. Inevitably there are significant costs of entry, and whilst High Peak Borough Council have provided some of the money there is still more to be raised. Many of the local hotels have also done their bit and I pay tribute to them for that. Tonight's dinner is to raise more funds for the bid. I and many of my Conservative colleagues attended the Dinner which was a great success. The Speaker was extremely funny and the Pavilion Gardens provided an excellent meal served hot and promptly. 

Tags: Buxton Pavillion Gardens HPBC

HOUSE REPOSSESSIONS UP 70% ! !

I have heard on the radio that house repossessions are up by 70% ! This is an enormous increase and show how bad things are as more and more people are facing losing their homes. If you are reading this and are under the same sort of pressure, please go to the news page where you can find the link to download our advice pack for people facing this terrible situation 

Tags: Recession

BUXTON AREA FORUM

The latest Area Forum, this time in Buxton. As ever there is always a good turnout in Buxton. There are lots iof issues to discuss about the town, not least the future of the swimming pool, which falls under my Portfolio. The situation is that we are awaiting plans and drawings on what can be done with the pool in order to bring it into the 21st century. Once these are done then we will consult with people for their opinions

Tags: Buxton

BUXTON SCHOOL QUESTION TIME

The first of four Question Time style events this week. Held at Buxton school, there are 3 of us on the panel. It should have been four, but Cllr. Sharp, the LibDem PPC didnt appear. The students, as ever, had lots of good questIons to ask, and showed a keen interest in political issues. I have long said that young people are interested in politics, its the Party politics that turn them off. I always try to avoid points scoring in these type events with younger voters as it does none of us any favours. Tags: Education Buxton

3 x QUESTION TIME EVENTS - NEW MILLS

Following an invitation from New Mills School, I am attending 3 Question TIme style events. Each one is for a different age group in the school. Also appearing on the panel are the two candidates form the other main political parties. Each group have different issues they want to raise. The first concentrate on issues around New Mills and the condition of the parks in the Town and how bad they are. The second group focus on leisure provision in and around the High Peak. The final event with the sixth formers centres on more national issues, especially tuition fees. All three events are very enjoyable and conducted very cordially between the three candidates. The fourth member of the Panel is Pam Bond from DCC   Tags: New Mills Education

MARGARET MILLICAN MBE, DL

A particularly sad day. It is the funeral of Margaret Millican. Margaret who has don so much for both Buxton and the High Peak will be sadly missed by many of us. The Service of Celebration held at St. Johns Church was a dignified service attended by many people from far and wide - a testament to the high esteem in which Margaret was held by so many of us. 

HIGH PEAK HAS GOT TALENT - BAGS OF IT !!

Organised by the Mayor, Robin Baldry, tonight is an event where the youth of the High Peak demonstrate their musical talent. A variety of bands from across the High Peak from different schools play a wide range of music to a large audience in the Octagon. Young people very often get a bad press, but witness this event and you can see that it is very often unfair.

Tags: Education High Peak Mayor

KEN CLARKE VISITS HIGH PEAK

Former Chancellor of the Exchequer, Kenneth Clarke MP visits the High Peak to accompany me on a visit to a local business. We discus the economic situation and how the recession is hitting this and many businesss both in the High Peak and across the country. Ken in his role as Shadow Business Secretary listens to the situation and offers his own analysis on the recession. A Buxton Advertiser video of his interview can be found here http://www.buxtonadvertiser.co.uk/bavideo/VIDEO-HEADLINES-Buxton-and-High.5126902.jp Tags: Local Businesses

MP's EXPENSES - MY PERSONAL THOUGHTS

SInce the row has erupted over MP's expenses following on from the antics of Tony McNulty and Jacqui Smith (and her husband) lots of people have been asking me for my views on the subject. Obviously I am not a Member of Parliament and consequently, not only do I not benefit from any expenses, I cannot to profess an intimate knoweldge of how the expenses and allowances system works for MP's, however here is my take on it.  An MP from outside London faces having to stay in the capital several nights a week, therefore they need somewhere to stay. This can be anywhere they wish, be it a rented property or one that they may wish to purchase. For this they can claim up a maximum of approximately £23,000 per year. (If it is for a property purchase they can only claim the interest on any mortgage). This is what is known as the second homes allowance. What I find unacceptable in the case of Jacqui Smith is that she has claimed her London residence (which appears to be a room with her family) as her PRIMARY residence. This means that her constituency homw then becomes her SECOND home. There are many expenses that can be claimed in respect of the second home, which means in effect her constituency home now enjoys the ability to have expenses connected with it being paid out of allowances. What she has done is within the rules. However I believe it isnt in the spirit of the rules, and I think the spirit is as important as the rules themselves. I will state categoricaly here and now; should I be fortunate enough to be elected, my home will remain in the High Peak and any second home that I need will be whatever arrangments I have to make for myself in London ! I have already stated quite clearly too, that I will not employ any Member of my family paid for out of allowances or expenses. I understand the argument for doing this and in many respects can see the sense in it, but it is something that I will not do.

When we hear about MP's abusing their privileges it makes my blood boil because everyone who works in politics gets tarred with the same brush. Not all MP's operate in this way. Neither do Councillors. The allowances of High Peak Borough Councillors are published every year for all to see on the Council website.

The MP's allowances need to looked at as quickly as possible and maybe completely re organised, not to do so will continue to damage the credibility of MP's which is something that will be bad for us all. I welcome your comments

Tags: Expenses

GO GLOSSOP GO !!!!

What an afternoon ! Who needs Premiership football when the level of excitement provided by Glossop Morth End's fantastic win can be found on our own doorsteps ! Unfortunately I couldnt get a ticket which meant I was listening on the radio as the drama unfolded but High Peak Radio and ben Price did a fantastic job of conveying the drama and excitement. I was absolutely exhausted after the match, but well done to evreyone - the players, the staff AND the fans for the fantastic support. I suspect that Glossop wil be deserted on May 10th as everyone will be heading down the M1 to Wembley - I for one will be with them ! ! 

Tags: Glossop North End

EMAIL SLURS - MY THOUGHTS

In a similar way to the recent furore over MP's expenses, many people have asked me for my comments on the recent events surrounding the proposed campaign of untrue stories that 10 Downing Street were proposing to launch.

I am disgusted with this story. it is scandalous that people in these positions should be even contemplating such actions. All the more disgraceful is that these people are paid for out of the public purse. They are not paid for by Labour Party funds but by the tax payer - you and I ! For us to pay for people to peddle such lies and innuendo is a disgrace. It brings all of politics and those of us who work in it into disredpute. I should be surprised that Gordon Brown wont apologise, but it seems to be a trait he has, he wont apologise for the economic mess, so I suppose it is too much to ask that he apologises promptly for this debacle either. 

If we want people to play an active part in politics and voting to increase it is duty bound on politicians to behave in an upright and responsible manner, NOT to make up stories about the opposition, NOT to try everything they can think of to try and squeeze the maximum out of the expenses allowance and NOT to treat people like fools ! 

Tags: Labour

F. A. VASE FINAL - GOT MY TICKET

Despite going to the quarter final match, I couldn't get a ticket for the semi final so I was determined not to miss out for the final of the F.A.Vase. Glossop have done fantastically well to get there. I called in at the ground today to get my ticket and also to book on to the train that the club have chartered. It should be a great day out with the fans on the train to the match.

I see in the press that there is criticism on the local MP for appearing to jump on the bandwagon by standing at the gate with his GNE scarf on. I won't comment specifically on his actions - he can answer for them. My only observation is that the High Peak Conservatives have had and paid for a board on the ground supporting GNE for the last few years, long before any Wembley Cup Finals were in the offing ! We also have a board on the ground at Buxton. Personally I have long been a fan of non league football from my days of going to watch Buxton as a boy aged 9, right through to today.

Tags: Glossop North End

HARPUR HILL

Following a Harpur Hill residents meeting some time ago, when I agreed to speak to Derby University about the disused site in Haprur Hill, I managed to get all parties together for a discussion about the future of the site and what plans DU may have. Also attedning were my colleagues and local Councillors Robin Baldry and Bob Morris, together with representatives of DU and several local residents. I felt the discussion were productive and fruitful. As ever many things are about communication, and if people and organisations can communicate well then things can happen in a more positive way  

Tags: Derby University

BUDGET DAY - A DEEP BREATH MAY BE REQUIRED

Today is Budget Day, I suspect there will be a lot of pain for us all. The country is so ill prepared for the economic downturn that there will be some very stark facts and figures coe out in the Chancellors speech today. More tomorrow I'm sure. Tags: National Debt

IT WAS A BUDGET OF DOOM

That was the budget that was. More debt, more borrowing, based on figures that are optimistic to say the least and are already being discreditted. What a sorry mess the country is in, and what a sorry state that the man responsible, Gordon Brown cannot admit it or cannot see it !

Tags: National Debt

VISIT OF GEORGE OSBORNE

George lives close by to the High Peak and is becoming a regular visitor to the constituency. During this visit we go to Federal Mogul (Ferodo) to discuss the economic situation and its impact on business. George and I have chance to discuss a wide range of other issues during our journey to and from the High Peak. Also whilst he is here George meets with our team of candidates for the forthcoming County Council elections. (pictured)  Tags: County Council Local Businesses

CONSERVATIVE MANIFESTO LAUNCH

The launch of the Conservative manifesto for the County Council is held today. We are hopeful that after 28 years of Labour control, we can take it away. The manifesto is a blueprint for how a Conservative Council will run and how it will change peoples lives in Derbyshire.  The manifesto can be found using links on the site but a copy can be posted out by request, just drop the Association a line. Tags: County Council

ON OUR WAY TO WEMBLEY

Today's the day. Glossop are going to Wembley. Catching the special train from Glossop station at 9.16am straight to Wembley Central. Come on Glossop !! More tomorrow

Tags: Glossop North End

WEMBLEY: SO NEAR BUT WHAT A DAY

Well it nearly was but unfortunately a big strong Whitley Bay side just got got edge over us. However what a great day out. To hear Glossop's name being chanted by 6000 Glossopians at Wembley stadium was fantastic - it made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. The special train was probably the longest train I have ever seen, but the atmosphere travelling down was great. Special thanks to Adie Hopkinson and the Glossop Mountain Rescue Team for all their efforts on the day. The journey home was a little more subdued, but in years to come we will all remember the day we went to Wembley with Glossop and I think in many ways the result will pale into insignificance. Tags: Glossop North End

FULL COUNCIL MEETING

At last night's meeting of High Peak Borough Council, there was some lively debate. Labour and the LibDems had put forward a motion about the future of policing. We felt it was all waffle and bureaucracy - something the police have been saddled with enough in recent years. We put our own amendment calling on the Government to fund Derbyshire police fairly and in line with their own funding formula. We are concerned with bobbies on the beat, not more bureaucrats. I am sure that is what the people of the High Peak want too.

I was particularly incensed by a Labour Councillor who tried to make political capital over the recent Rent Service issues on payable levels of Housing Benefit in Glossop. It is strange that he hasnt shown that much interest until last night and whilst I and fellow Conservative Councillors have been in regular contact with The Rent Service, and have been keen to involve Councillors of all parties, he seems to have conveniently ignored all that !

Tags: Lib Dems Labour Glossop Rents HPBC

MP's EXPENSES

On every door and at every turn people are angry about the recent disclosures on MP's expenses. For regular readers of the blog you will have seen my thoughts on expenses and I stand by them. The rules are there and should be adhered to, btu the sprit of the rules should also be equally abided with ! I am happy to talk to anyone on this subject, but I am very disappointed in what has happened and the impression that it is creating of our Members of Parliament.

Tags: Expenses

ONLINE CANVAS NOW AVAILABLE

 To help people respond to our canvassing that we are undertaking as part of the local elections, we have set up an online canvas facility. This doesnt replace actually speaking to people, but it is there for people who we call to see and are out or otherwise engaged.

http://highpeakopinion.wufoo.com/forms/z7x4m1/

Tags: Surveys

ELECTION PAPERWORK

Any election carries with it a large amount of paperwork, from Nomination papers at the outset through to the completion of the expenses forms at the conclusion. Acting as Agent for all 8 Conservative candidates, I need to shut myself away for a few hours to ensure that all the paperwork is correctly completed and handed in to the relevant authority.

Tags: Local Elections

PEOPLE ARE INCENSED - QUITE RIGHTLY.

I have been knocking on lots of doors over the last few days and people are furious over the recent MPs' expenses scandal, and to be honest I feel exactly the same. I see them doing things that they should be ashamed of. I hope the situation can be sorted as soon as possible and I feel  sure that some high profile MPs will be standing down prior the the next election. I have already stated my position on expenses but I think it needs firming up a bit more.

Tags: Expenses

MY CANDIDATES CONTRACT - WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS

I am determined to distance myself from the tarnished reputations of MPs who have been abusing their expenses. I will not do that and have never even contemplated the possibility of claims for fridges, televisions etc. etc. if I get elected. I have written, what I call my 'Candidate's Contract'. Please let me know what your thoughts are on  it. Does it go far enough, is there something that I should add in to it? Please click on the comments button and tell me your thoughts. 

Tags: Expenses Candidates Contract

BUXTON ROTARY CHARITY WALK

I have been asked to take part in the Buxton Rotary Club charity walk. Both I and the MP have been asked although he didn't do the walk, instead turned up at the start. A bracing 6 mile walk from Burbage over the moors to Derbyshire Bridge. benefitting from a lovely day, it was a pleasure to do. Also chatted with various different people about all sorts of subjects which made the whole thing go very quickly.  Tags: Charity

GLOSSOP RENTS - THE FINAL ACT ?

After months of negotiation, dialogue and indeed good old fashioned arguing with the Rent Service they have appeared to have delivered their final verdict. Glossop will sit in a Broad Rental Market Area with Ashton and Tameside. However Oldham and Rochdale will be in a different area. Whilst this is better than their first proposal, it is not as good as I would have wanted. It appears that this is the final say on this matter as there is no room for appeal. We almost had the best solution until Government legislation implemented in January scuppered us !

Tags: Glossop Rents

EXPENSES - HEAVY READING

The local MP's expenses are heavy reading. Already I have spotted two questions, (in addition to the many already being asked), that I would be interested to hear the answer.

1. The money paid to Barnard Braggins. Is it true that this company is based inside Labour Party headquarters and run by two former Labour Party employees?

2. Why does he use a private mail company instead of the Royal Mail, thereby supporting the Royal Mail and our Post Offices as I do, albeit I dont have any public funds to spend ?

I am sure there wll be other questions to come

Tags: Labour Expenses Post Offices

MORE REVELATIONS ON MP's EXPENSES

It seems that someone has gone mad with the black marker pen as the official release of MP's expenses appears on the internet. I can understand some things need to be blacked out eg. bank account details but was it really necessary to be so lavish with the pen. People are losing all faith in politics and politicians and this is just rubbing salt into an already open wound !

Tags: Expenses

BUXTON FESTIVAL - OPENING NIGHT

The Buxton Festival opened tonight and I attended the first performance of the festival. Donizetti's Lucrezia Borgia was the opera being performed. The festival is a fantastic occasion for the whole area, not just Buxton, as visitors stop in accommodation right across the High Peak. I am looking forward to the 23rd July when David Cameron will be appearing as part of the literary festival. Tonights performance was thoroughly enjoyable, whilst performed in Italian, subtitles were provided on screens. I susupect that pure Opera buffs may be uncomfortable with this, but I found that as a comparative opera novice, it added hugely to my enjoyment of the occasion.

Tags: Buxton Festival Buxton

GERMAN TWINNING

The twinning visit is happening in the High Peak at the moment. Tonight I have been out for a bar snack with Tobias Utter who is a German politician and his family. It was amazing on the similarities between our roles. We discussed campaigning ideas and ways in which we both try to interact with the electorate. 

WALK TO WORK DAY

I agreed to support a group of Buxton ladies in ther campaign to get as many people as possible to walk to work today instead of driving. I agreed to walk to Buxton from my home in Chapel. Despite all my hopes for a nice day, the weather was dreadful. However it was good practice for my forthcoming charity Hike09.

BLYTHE HOUSE TREASURE HUNT

Jayne and I have agreed to set a Treasure Hunt in aid of Blythe House. The rain just keeps on falling so we are glad we decided to set it in such a manner that people didnt have to get out of their cars to do it. We had a good turnout and raised a good few pounds for Blythe House. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves too - despite the weather! Tags: Chapel-en-le-Frith Health

DERBYSHIRE SPORT AGM.

As the portfolio holder for Social and Community Development, Derbyshire Sport is a body that I represent the Council on. It does a lot of good work to get people into sport and encourage talented athletes across the county and in the High Peak. The AGM was held in Chesterfield and lasted a couple of hours. Our contribution as a Council towards Derbyshire Sport reaps rich rewards and benfits for High Peak residents in terms of sports coaches that we can offer to young people throughout the year.

Tags: HPBC

DAVID CAMERON IN HIGH PEAK

The day of the Norwich by-election and David Cameron hot foots it from a dawn raid in Norwich to arrive in the High Peak for his appearence at the Buxton Festival. Before that however he has a meeting with myself and Council leaders to hear about the Strategic Alliance with Staffs Moorlands. He is extremely interested in the work that the two Councils are doing together and also the involvement with Derbyshire County Council, also now under Conservative control following the local elections in June. He then went on stage at the Buxton Festival with Dylan Jones, the author of Cameron on Cameron to discuss the book. Following the dicussion he then took questions from the audience. The Opera House was packed out and David dealt admirably with a wide range of questions.  Tags: HPBC Staffordshire Moorlands David Cameron Buxton Festival

TRIUMPH IN NORWICH !

Another by-election result and another victory as remarkable as the Crewe & Nantwich result last year.  Turning a 5000+ Labour majority into a 7000+ Conservative one is a sensational acheivement. Whilst I have been helping the campaign from here in the High Peak, friends and colleagues on the ground in Norwich tell me that the Labour campaign was incredibly negative. I dont think the way to win peoples trust and support is through negative campaigning. Point out shortcomings in opposition policies and ideas by all means but don't resort to personal attacks and indiscriminate hostility for the sake of it. What do you think ? Let me have your comments please

Tags: By-Election Labour

MEDIA WATCH

Today is the day that the Glossop Chronicle and Buxton Advertiser are published. They are usually ful of stories of both political and human interest. Whilst I obviously respond in those papers and indeed the Glossop Advertiser free paper to specific questions of articles, I thought that I would use the blog to put a new feature on the website which is my reaction to any stories in the paper of the day that I haven't already dealt with on the website. With a weeks holiday coming up next week in Lancashire, I will put the first of these on the blog for the papers of August 13th.

MEETING TO DISCUSS HIKE

Dominique Bailey of The Old Oak pub in Tintwistle has kindly offered to host the launch of my charity hike 2009. After seeing the article in the recent press she called me to say she would send us on our way with a hearty breakfast. I called to see her today to sort out the arrangements and to thank her for her kind generosity. Tags: High Peak Hike

MEDIA WATCH - COUNCIL ALLIANCE

I have returned from my holiday and picked up the local press to see comments by the MP regarding the Councils' Alliance with Staffs Moorlands. He is so far off the mark with his accusations, there is no way that the local voice will be lost as a result of the Alliance. As for his accusations of illegitimacy, well if he believes that then why has he not taken the appropriate legal steps to challenge, or is he engaging in political opportunism ??   Tags: Staffordshire Moorlands HPBC Tom Levitt

MEDIA WATCH - FUNDING

A local Liberal Democrat has raised again the question of my campaign funding. I have answered this question several times before in the press. Our campaign funds are raised locally through a series of events and donations. The event are listed on the website events page. In addition we received contributions from Conservative HQ. This money comes from donors up and down the country who choose to donate centrally. This money is then distributed amongst seats like the High Peak where we are having to work against the Communications Allowance used by the sitting Labour MP. This is public money that the MP can use. The money we use is not from the public purse ! Turning to the Liberal Democrats and their funding. I refer to the following link http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/newsnight/michaelcrick/2009/06/lib_dems_face_quandary_over_mi.html  This man is a convicted criminal and the LibDems are showing no sign of returning the money as yet. the accusations made locally refer to someone who is not a criminal yet they seem to be trying to take the high moral ground. This at a time when their own Parliamentary Candidate for the High Peak has a well reported financial cloud hanging over him. I have not commented on this at all as yet because a man is innocent until proven guilty, its a shame that the LibDems dont work to the same standards ! Tags: Lib Dems

FINALISATION OF HIKE ROUTE

A meeting with one of my friends from Glossop Mountain Rescue to discuss the first day route of the Hike. We need to get from Tintwistle in the north to Hague Bar in the west via the centre of the constituency. We dont want to walk over Chunal on the road as there are no footpaths and it could be quite dangerous. Paul has offered to accompany us on the first day which is great.

Tags: High Peak Hike

HIGH PEAK HIKE 2009 - WE'RE OFF !

Thanks to Dominique at The Old Oak Emma and I set off with a couple of bacon sandwiches inside us. We are waved off by several of our Conservative Council colleagues and members of the Glossop Talking Newspapers group who are one of the beneficiaries from this years walk. Local Councillor Cynthia Mitchell actually sets us on our way with a wave of a Union Jack. Tags: High Peak Hike

HIKE 09 - DAY 2

Day 2 of the Hike. From the centre of the constituency out to the South of Buxton. The shortest day of the hike, but for some reason I seemed to have developed blisters on my feet. Something that has not happened on either of the previous hikes. That and some stiffness from yesterday make it hard to get going but once started things begin to soften up a bit.

Tags: High Peak Hike

HIKE 09 - DAY 3

The last day. From the centre again out to the Eastern point at Bamford. It was interesting to walk down the old Mam Tor road instead of Winnats. The Mam Tor road closed many many years ago as it kept slipping down the 'Shivering Mountain'. It was really quite eerie to see where the road once was complete with the white lines still there. It was like the scene of a disaster movie. It took longer than I thought to reach Bamford especially as we were both stiff and blistered from our previous days excursions. However we were delighted to complete the walk. Now to collect the money !

Tags: High Peak Hike

MEDIA WATCH - TAX CREDITS-ALLIANCE

Huge amounts of debt have been incurred by people unwittingly due to the complexity of Tax Credits. This problem is not new but it has been raised again by the CAB. We advocated some writing off of these debts at the last election. I see Cllr. Sharp has weighed into the debate on the Alliance supporting comments by the local MP. Strange that Cllr. Sharp has never echoed his reservations in the Council Chamber. Tags: Lib Dems

DERBYSHIRE SPORTS AWARDS

Following the recent High Peak Sports Awards, five High Peak sports people were shortlisted for tonights County awards. I was delighted that Jill Healey was successful in winning and award. I was disappointed for the other nominees although they all did extremely well to be shortlisted. I was particularly disappointed for Glossop North End who I did think deserved to win for their fantastic run to the final of the FA Vase at Wembley.

PRESENTATION OF HIKE CHEQUES

Together with Emma, my walking colleague and the East Midlands MEP, I hand over the money raised by this years High Peak Hike. Once again we have made over £1,000 for local charities. The hike is always great fun, hard work, but very satisfying to see the money handed over to worthwhile local charities. This year the Buxton Summer Club, New Mills Young Womens Group and Glossop Newspapers for the Blind are the principle beneficiaries.

DINNER FOR THE G&S

Every year, local hoteliers and traders get together and arrange a dinner for the organisers of the G&S Festival held in Buxton. The festival brings in large amounts of people to the town and their spend provides a great filip to the local economy. I always try to attend the dinner as it is also a good opportunity for me to speak to local traders and listen to their thoughts on their issues of the day. 

Tags: Local Businesses

Cllr. CYNTHIA MITCHELL

This morning I received the terrible news that Cynthia had passed away in the early hours. I have known Cynthia for many years and she was a great friend. She was elected to the Council in 2007 as Councillor for Tintwistle, and was the Deputy Mayor of the High Peak. Whilst on the Council she always stood up for Tintwistle at every opportunity. She recently acted as starter for my High Peak Hike 2009 and my abiding memory of her will be waving the Union Jack flag to get us on our way. We will all miss Cynthia a great deal, both amongst the High Peak Conservatives and the whole community in Tintwistle too. I personally will miss her for her advice, help and great personality.

MEDIA WATCH - NHS

The local Labour activists have jumped on comments made by Dan Hannan MEP regarding the NHS and have tried to turn them into an indication of Conservative policy. I have already said that I thought Dan's comments were wrong and in no way do they represent our policy nor my own thoughts. Trying to turn them into some sort of policy statement as Labour are doing locally, is wrong and just playing political games. Mr. Levitt even tries to quote history from 1948 as a yardstick for 2009 policy. Interesting from a man who was a member of CND yet now supports Trident. A conversion worthy of St. Paul on the road to Damascus ! His comments really do smack of hypocrisy. It has been said many times, but it is worth repeating, the NHS will be the number one priority of an incoming Conservative Government ! Tags: Health Labour

WHITFIELD MUGA

At last work is beginning on the Multi User Games Area at Whitfield. After months of planning it is finally going to happen. It's been particularly impressive how the young people of the area have got involved in this project, helping fund raise and making suggestions towards its design. I was in Whitfield with the County Councillor for the area, Jean Wharmby looking at some other issues so we popped by to watch the work begin.

Work has begun, and hopefully it will be completed within 4 weeks.

Tags: Glossop

OAKFORD MANOR

Today I was due to visit Oakford Manor nursing home with Cynthia. I contacted them through my colleague Peter Kay following Cynthia's death to ask them if they would prefer to re schedule. They were happy that I still visited the home accompanied by Peter. We discussed Cynthia at great length as she used to work at the home. Not that any confirmation was needed, but yet again I met people who had known Cynthia for many years and had nothing but glowing praise for her.

We also discussed the home and what it does within the community. The discussions also covered what the future of long term residential care holds and how we can look at funding care for the elderly. This is an issue I am always anxious to hear the professional view on as I think it is something that is getting more and more important as the population becomes more elderly. 

CYNTHIA MITCHELL

A very sad day for many people as it is Cynthia's funeral. A packed church heard her daughter Francine give a wonderful eulogy about her Mum. Containing laughter and tears it evoked the memories that many of us will carry of Cynthia for a very long time. I will miss her greatly as I know will many other people.

SAFER COMMUNITIES BOARD MEETING

As the Council representative on the SCB I attended the meeting in Ripley. The main thrust of the agenda is crime and safety. Whilst we are lucky to live in a low crime area, there are a few statistics that we need to watch, especially around acquisitive crime and also admissions to hospital due to alcohol related reasons. Our figures are small and therefore easily distorted, however it is no reason for complacency.

HIGH PEAK SPORTS AWARDS 2009

From the Freshers Fair, it's straight to the annual High Peak Sports Awards, which it is my privilege to be involved with. As part of my portfolio on the Council this is one of the most pleasurable events of the year. It is fantastic to see young people and old receiving awards for what they have achieved for themselves and also what they have done for the community. There were numerous awards presented and I wouldn't like to go through them all here, but I was particularly delighted to see Glossop North End honoured for their achievement of getting to Wembley for the F.A.Vase final earlier this year.

BLOG RESUMES

For personal reasons the blog has not been updated for a while. I will resume the blog entries from today. Thank you for your patience over the last few weeks and all the good wishes, cards and letters received by myself and the family. It has been exceptionally heart warming. Thank you. 

THE SUN SUPPORTS THE CONSERVATIVES

After 12 years of steadfast support for the New Labour project, the country's biggest selling newspaper, The Sun has today stated that it belived that the Conservatives are the Party that has the answers for the problems that Britain faces today. This support coms the day after Gordon Brown's speech at the Labour Party conference where he spoke to his party but not really to the nation.

DERBY UNIVERSITY FRESHERS FAIR 2009

Once again, with colleagues we stand the DU Freshers Fair. A continual challenge in politics is to involve young people. By standing the fair I hope that the new students arriving in Buxton will see that politicians are not two headed beasts and we are working hard trying to represent people in the best way we can. We have a lot of people visit the stand, many of whom were critical of the present Government and showed an interest in politics and the coming General Election.

HIGH PEAK INDOOR BOWLS

After helping the High Peak indoor bowlers over the past few weeks and months, they are finally ready to launch their indoor bowling season. They have worked fantastically hard to make this happen and I applaud them for their efforts. Being asked to bowl the first 'wood' put the pressure on. My first two were awful, the third a bit better, but my fourth was only about 2 ft from the jack. I decided to retire from the sport there and then !

CONFERENCE 2009

Today I'm off to Manchester for the Conservative Party conference. As the last Conference before the General Election it promises to be an interesting conference. I am expecting quite a few announcements on how we will be looking to deal with the dire economic circumstances should we form the next Government. Whilst it is impossible to lay out a full budget at this stage as we haven't had 'access to the books', we can make some indications.

CONFERENCE HEADLINES

Unlike the Labour party conference on which they spent their time talking to each other, I feel that at our Conference we spoke to the British people. We laid out a few things that a future Conservative Government would look to do. Whilst I know that some of the things will provoke further questions from people eg. raising of the retirement age, 1 year public sector pay freezes, we cannot duck the tough decisions. The country has been financially savaged by this Government and it faces the most desperate economic situation for many years. Thse tough times require tough decisions and for anyone to deny the seriousness of the situation as Gordon Brown is doing is disingenuous. Together with the measures proposed by George Osborne, reforms by Michael Gove in Education, Ken Clarke in business, I belive that a Conservative government can get Britain back on its feet, as it has done in the past, following years of Labour mismanagement.

MPs' EXPENSES

Once again MPs' expenses are at the top of the political agenda as MPs return to Westminster to find individual letters waiting for them concerning their own claims. Our local MP is remaining coy about the contents of his letter. I have seen websites commenting on various aspects of his claims. For the avoidance of doubt, and following comments made by Mr. Levitt regarding the origin of these sites, I would like to make it clear that I only comment on this website and have nothing to do with any other sites.

My view is that Mr. Levitt's expenses seem excessive and some of the things claimed for do not appear to be essential in assisting him to carry out his role as the Member of Parliament. I drew up my Candidates Contract as long ago as May, where I have tried to outline what my position would be should I be elected as the MP for the High Peak.

BUXTON FOR YOUTH

My first High Peak Hike in 2007 was done in part for Buxton for Youth, so I am always interested to see how they are getting on. Tonights open evening showed very well that the project is going from strength to strength. The work they do is a real help to young people when they need it and a credit to all involved  

ELECTION DAY IN TINTWISTLE

Today is the day for our candidate, Bill Clarke who is hoping to succeed the late Cynthia Mitchell as Councillor for the Tintwistle Ward. Along with Bill and the rest of the team we have knocked on pretty much every door in the Ward, introducing Bill and learning a lot about Tintwistle and the parts of Hadfield that fall within the Ward boundary.

TINTWISTLE LANDSLIDE !!

Bill Clarke our Conservative Candidate won the Tintwistle by-election yesterday in a landslide victory. Bill polled over 69% of the vote as the Labour vote collapsed. The LibDems suffered a particular humiliation, polling only a meagre 40 votes ! Bill now has to get stuck into the work started by Cynthia which I am sure he will do very well. It will be a steep learning curve for him over the next few weeks as he gets to grip with Council procedures, but as an existing Parish Councillor I have complete confidence that he will be up to the task.

SHAKESPEARE IN THE DOME

Tonight we attended a performance of Much Ado About Nothing. It was performed in the Dome at Buxton which was a fabulous setting for it. The performances by the cast were terrific and whilst I was never a big Shakespeare fan at school, I have to say that I was enthralled by the whole performance and the storyline. It was made extra special though by the setting within the Dome.

OPENING OF THE WHITFIELD MUGA

After months of work and effort by The Pride of Whitfield assisted by the Borough Council tonight saw the official opening of the Multi User Games Area in Whitfield. Despite torrential rain plenty of people turned out for the opening together with a fireworks display, tombola, fairgound rides etc. A lot of the credit for the MUGA must also go to the young people of Whitfield who have been heavily involved in the project from the start.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

Always a sad and diginifed occasion, I laid a wreath today in Glossop on behalf of High Peak Conservatives. As conflict rages in Iraq and Afghanistan, Remembrance Sunday has gained an extra poignancy. There may be no veterans left from the Great War of 1914-18, but it is sad that they are replaced by veterans of more recent conflicts within the last 10 years.

GLOSSOP PENSIONERS

The local MP has been making some spurious comments about the strategic alliance between High Peak Borough Council and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council. He repeated them at a recent meeting of Glossop pensioners. I was invited along to put forward the alternative view. People who read the website regularly will know that there is a pretty through explanation of the arrangements. I explained the facts of the situation to the group. They asked lots of questions but I think at the end of the discussion they were satisfied. However they did say they would watch the situation carefully. I welcomed this and offered to visit them again at any time if they ever required further clarification. 

MANOR PARK BOWLING CLUB ANNUAL AWARDS

my friend and colleague, Emma McClarkin - the MEP for the East Midlands has been invited to present the annual awards for Manor Park Bowling Club. This followed her meeting them at the recent Sports Awards. I have dealt with Dave Collier from the club for some time now and was happy to accomapny Emma to the event. There was a good turn out which reinforced the strength of the club. I am always impressed by them, particularly the way they encourage younger people to take up the sport  

PEAKDALE PLAY AREA

Peakdale is the latest play area to receive the upgrade in the Council's plane to refurbish several of the play areas throughout the Borough. Massively helped on this occasion by Wormhill Parish Council who had secured further funding to make a rel difference to the area. Tonights meeting was an informal discussion with residents and the young people who use the park to ensure that we get the right equipment that they want to use. We have done this at all the play areas we have refurbished and it is a well worked formula now to ensure that people get exactly what they want within the money we have to spend.

BUXTON YOUNG FARMERS

Tonight I had been invited to speak to the Buxton Young Farmers. They wanted me to speak about the day to day life of a Parliamentary Candidate, what the process is to become a PPC. I always enjoy speaking to younger audeinces because they are the people who are les likely to vote and feel more detached from politics. Afterwards they ask a range of questions and inveitbaly many of them are around the expenses scandal. As ever though with young people they feel very passionate about certain subjects but it is the party politics that tends to alienate them.

SAFER COMMUNITIES BOARD MEETING

The regular meeting of the SCB. The new Local Area Agrement regime dictates these boards. Thsi is usually a useful meeting as we look at crime levels across the county and various initiatives being done in different areas. its a good chance to talk directly with the police and also to pick up ideas from other Councils for tackling crime and anti social behaviour problems.

COMPANY VISIT - LHOIST UK

It is vital that I keep regular contact with businesses, both local and national who are located within the High Peak. Today i visited the offices of Lhoist in Buxton. We had a wide ranging discussion partciluarly around the taxation of waste fuels. It is issues like this that I need to be made aware of so that I can help where I can, and if elected as the next Member of Parliament I know the pressing problems facing business. Coming from a private sector background as I do, I remain conscious at all times that it is the private business sector that generates the funds needed to fund the public sector via the taxation it pays.

RESIDENTS MEETING - NEW SMITHY

Our candidate for the forthcoming Backbrook by-election, Geoff Colston has alerted me to a potentil problem in the New Smith area. There are two problems. Firstly, the bridge is due to close for maintenance - this is the main route connecting Glossop and Hayfiueld with the central and southern areas of the constituency so will have a big effect on a lot of people, particularly the residents and business owners at New Smithy.

Another problem is the number of high vehicles that are getting stuck at the low bridge. I was surprised at this given that several new road signs were placed alerting drivers to the problem a couple of years ago. I promised to discuss the matter with the new Leader of Derbyshire County Council, Andrew Lewer when he visits the High Peak next week to see if anything can be done. 

HIGH PEAK COMMUNITY HOUSING - AGM

As the Portfolio Holder on High Peak Borough Council responsible for HPCH, I always attend their AGM. it is usually over fairly quickly but it is an opportunity to chat with the new Chief Executive and members of the Board of Directors.

TOM LEVITT EMAIL

Retiring MP. Tom Levitt has asked me to remove the article from the website concerning Attendance Allowance and Disability Living Allowance for pensioners. he has called upon the Secretary of State for support to claim the article is wrong. However, I notice the SofS response is ambiguous and doesnt not specifically refute the claims. I think it is a bit rich of Mr. Levitt to accuse me of inaccuracies when he has consistently been trotting out misleading information about the Strategic Alliance between High peak Borough Council and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council. The article remains !

NEW MILLS LEISURE CENTRE MEETING

Again as part of  my Portfolio on the Council we are dealing with leisure facilites. There is so much going on with improving the Council leisure centres at the moment. Tonight I am meeting with the squash playters who use New Mills Leisure Centre. We have been looking at different alternatives for reconfiguring the facility. We posted options up some time ago but I promised the squash players that we wouldkeep them informed. They made a good argument forthe retention of some squash provision. We explain that we hope to be able to retain a squash court in the new arrangements. The discussion ranged around several issues but I explained that we had tried very hard to keep some provision for them and that we were hopeful of being able to do just this.

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

Every year I take a party from High Peak Conservatives to visit a Parliament building. We have been to London, Edinburgh, Brussels and Strasbourg. This year there will be 27 of us visiting the European Parliament building in Brussels, however we will be staying in  Bruges. An early start travelling by coach, we are looking forward to a good time as Bruges will be hosting its annual Christmas markets.

PARLIAMENT BUILDING - BRUSSELS

Today we go to the Parliament building and meet new East Midlands MEP. Emma McClarkin. I know Emma well as she accompanies me on my annual  charity walk. Emma gives us a talk on her new life as East Mdilands MEP. and the youngest British MEP. We also have a guided tour of the building which is enormous.

PRE BUDGET REPORT

Yesterday the Chancellor delivered his pre budget report. It should have been re titled the pre election report as the Chancellor usedin unashamedly as an electioneering opportunity instead of taking actions that the country is crying out for. See the news page for more on this subject.

TWO SPEECHES IN THE DAY + 1

My first appointment today was atr a coffee morning in Glossop where I had been asked to speak about the political situation and the General Election that is nowonly a matter of months away.

Secondly I addressed a class of children at Simmondley school. I have  done this for the past few year and thoroughly enjoy it. As ever regardless of age young people are interested in the issues. We tend to assume they dont care - but this is unfair. They have lots of questions ans as in previous years the lesson over runsintobreak time.

Later in the  evening I attended the annual Hope Show Dinner. I attended as a guest but due to an ijury to the President I was asked to stand in as the speaker at the last minute. Fortunately there were several friends also there who I could use as subjects of various amusing anecdotes.

FULL COUNCIL MEETING

Tonight was a poignant occasion for me as the Council  appointed a new Mayor to replace Dad. Apresentation of a past Mayor and Mayoress medal was made to Mum. The rest of the Council meeting passed of fairly peacefully with Cllr. Peter Kay invested as the new Mayor and Cllr. Bob Morris as his deputy.

NEWSPAPER ROUND UP

More expenses misery for Mr. Levitt as the Buxton Advertiser reveals he claimed £21.50 for a SINGLE wine glass!! Some of these expenses are ridiculous and in such financially difficut times, in many ways offensive. On this site is my Candidates Contract - in all my years in business and in politics, I have never been a great claimer of expenses, it is not in my nature. If elected next year, I will not change.

NFU DINNER

I have been asked to speak at the annual NFU Christmas Dinner in Bamford. I know many of the farmers as I have been to NFU events before, but it is always good to get out into the various areas of the community as much as possible to meet people and listend to the things that are worrying them the most. I mention me Questions in the House events and immediately someone books me in for the New Year. On a lighter note I win a penguin in the raffle, not a real one I hasten to add!

BLEAKLOW - AIRCRAFT WRECKS

I have heard a lot about the aircraft wrecks on Bleaklow and Kinder but I've never seen them. We arranged weeks ago to take a walk up to look at the sites and the memorials. As the snow began to fall yesterday I suspected that the walk may be off. However Jayne, myself and two friends went up accompanied by a friend of mine from Glossop Mountain Rescue. Without his guidance we would not have gone up due to the inclement weather. We didn't go all the way to the top but we reached the first wrecks. We couldn't see the wrecks themselves due to the snow but we saw the memorial. We then retired to The Wheatsheaf in Old Glossop for some real ale and proper home cooked food. I dont normally do recommendations but I have to say the welcome, the food and the beer was absolutely fantastic.

SNOW SNOW AND MORE SNOW

The snow continues to fall. We should have been going to a G&S event in Buxton today. We left it to the last minute but it became clear that the snow was not going to stop and whilst we may have been able to get to Buxton, getting home was by no means as certain which was a real shame.

ISSUES TO RESOLVE

A couple of local issues needed looking at. Firstly with Cllr. Bill Barratt and Cty. Cllr. Pam Reddy, a footpath in ther areas that is in need of attention. We discussed the problem and I feel sure we can resolve ot for them both. Secodnly the issue of some trees in Cote Heath, also Pam's patch. I will look deeper into this as it looks more tricky, although with the snow on the ground there will be little that can be done immediately.

NEW LABOUR - NEW PROBLEM FOR GORDON BROWN

Yet againd there is a plot to unseat Gordon Brown. This time hatched by Mssrs. Hewitt and Hoon. Whay can the Labour Party not concentrate on running the coutry instead of unseemly squabbles amongst themselves in their desperate attempts to hold on to power. They should go to the country as soon as possible and let us all have a say ion the future of Gordon Brown. The country needs a Government totally focused on the country and its problems, not ripping itself apart by internal warfare !

BUXTON RETAILERS AGAINST CRIME

I have been invited to a meeting of the above group. I wasn't aware of its existence until recently. Two things surprised me; the level of shoplifting that still goes on and, to their credit, the organised response by this group designed to combat it. I said at the meeting that they should get more publicity as that in itself is likely to act as an effective deterrent.

QUESTIONS IN THE HOUSE

The latest Questions in the House proved a tough challenge. With many events across the High Peak beign cancelled due to the snow, I was determined that this did not go the same way. So despite the conditions I and my hosts all managed to battle the weather and have a very successful evening. I always promise people that what we discuss in their homes as part of QiH will remain confidential unless they wish to discuss it outside, but we had a really good discusion on a variety of issues that were uppermost in the minds of those present.

QUIZMASTER - CHARITY QUIZ

I have agreed to set a quiz for Blythe House at The Jolly Carter pub in Chapel-en-le-Frith. We had a good run out with approximately 9 teams taking part. It was neck and neck all the way with rounds on all sorts of subjects. At the end of the night though everyone had enjoyed themselves and we had raised a few pounds for Blythe House.

6TH MAY - IS THE CAT OUT OF THE BAG ?

So it looks like it's May 6th for the General Election. Labour minister Bob Ainsworth looks to have let it slip in an interview on Sky today. I expected it to be May 6th so it comes as no surprise - although of course it could be a double bluff! Either way the sooner we can have a General Election the sooner I hope a Conservative Goverment can start rebuilding the country.

High Peak CVS

Today is the meeting of the High Peak CVS which I attend in my role as Exec Councillor. Unfortunately I am not privy to the whole agenda and there were some adverse comments regarding the Council which were uncalled for and politically motivated !

BLYTHE HOUSE BURNS NIGHT

We always try to support Blythe House events where we can. The annual Burns night is always an excellent event that raises a good sum towards what is a fantastic facility in Chapel. Once again this years it doesn't disappoint. Even in such difficult financial times, people have still managed to turn out in their droves to Chapel Town Hall.

MALANDRA TIP

The closure of the refuse site at Malandra is very bad news for Glossop people and also for the Council. The bridge accessing the site has been found to be unsuitable to carry the heavy wagons that take the rubbish away from the site. The bridge is owned by United Utilities so I hope they can address the problem very quickly.

MEETING WITH DENTISTS

Following the publication of the fiorst chapter of our Draft manifesto on the NHS, I sent it out to all the local doctors and dentists for them to read and offered to visit them to listen to their comments. Tonight I am visiting a dental practice in Glossop to discuss it with them and listen to their thoughts on the future of NHS dentistry.

QUESTIONS IN THE HOUSE - FARMING

The latest in my QiH series of meetings. These have really taken off. Todays was at a farm in the Hope Valley and it was interesting to hear the latest situation in the High Peak that farmers are having to contend with. They brought some issues that I haven't come acros before which really shows the value of these meetings. As I left the meeting the snow was beginning to fall quite heavily, although I was over the Snake Pass at the time !

CANVASS, CANVASS, CANVASS.

I have always canvassed regularly across the High Peak but as the election draws nearer, we are stepping up the canvass programme. With politics at an all time low in the eyes of many people it is up to me to get out on the doors to reassure people that I am in this for them and that i want to change both politics and the country, whilst helping people from across the High Peak. 

MORE CANVASSING AND QUESTIONS IN THE HOUSE

Following more door knocking in the morning, its off to another QiH event, this time in Buxton. These are proving very popular and different audiences ask different questions. I won't mention every one I do from now on in the blog as it will start becoming repetitive.

BUXTON POOL

Regrettably the refurbishment of Buxton Pool is not going to be completed for Easter as I wanted. Investigations have found serious damage and corrosion to the steel work. I ensured that all the user groups were notified as soon as possible. First of all today I visited the pool to see for myself the level of corrosion. I was quite shocked at what I saw. Later on I met with one of the groups to explain the full situation. Bacause the problem was found early it still means that the project can go ahead within budget.

BIG FACT FINDING

Today we had lots of people out across the High Peak knocking on doors speaking to people listening to their worries and fears. Peoples' concerns vary across the area according to a variety of reasons, but by listening on the doorsteps we can hopefully look to address these fears through whatever means are available to us. If we called to see you and you weren't in, then please don't hesitate to give me a call and I will come back at a more convenient time.  

GLOSSOP SPUR - CONSULTATION

Today I had a ride out to look at the location for the proposed spur road into Glossop that is being consulted on by Tameside. Whilst I knew the area pretty well anyway, I thought it wouldnt do any harm to go and refresh my memory in advance of the consultation event this Friday.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Affordable housing continues to be a difficult issue in the High peak especially given the difficult economic circumstances. At the Council tonight there is specific training for Members on how affordable housing can be providied and what options are open to a local authority to try and encourage the bulding of more affordable homes for local people. I was disappointed by the lack of Councillors from other parties who attended.

CONSERVATIVE SPRING FORUM

A couple of days out of the campaign to attend the Conservative Spring Forum in Brighton. There are several things that are on the agenda together with private meetings about the General Election, so whilst I dont like to be away from the High Peak at this vital time, I used my couple of days to the full.

LOWEST COUNCIL TAX INCREASE FOR YEARS

At tonights meeting of High Peak Borough Council we agreed the Council Tax increase for 2010/11 at 1.5% which is well below inflation and the lowest increase for years. I was very disappointed in the opposition. They did not support the budget yet did not offer any alternatives whatsoever. Yes the budget is challenging, but we need to keep costs down and ensure that High Peak residents who are suffering enough under Gordon Brown's recession do not suffer any more.

CANVAS CANVAS CANVAS

Our relentless canvassing continues apace. We have teams of people out daily now as we get closer to the election. In Glossop, Buxton and all the smaller villages we have people knocking on the doors of High Peak residents asking their opinions listening to their views. Politicians have a lot of trust to regain - I think the best way to do that is by knocking on doors and meeting people face to face. If you are reading this and havent been visited, please drop me a line - we would be delighted to call. There are almost 40,000 doors in the High Peak. To speak on every door for 5 minutes, 8 hours a day, seven days a week would take over a year to get to every house - almost an impossible task. However there aren't many streets in the High Peak now that I haven't canvassed at some time or another.

FUNDING

Amidst stories regarding the tax status of Lord Ashcroft I have placed a statement on the website regarding the funding arrangements for my campaign here in High Peak

LETTER FROM THE MP

I have received a letter from the local MP regarding funding. I am very disappointed in it. In his apparent haste to try and score political points he has got facts wrong and been very selective in his remarks. I will post my reply on this site tomorrow.

MERCIAN REGIMENT - GLOSSOP

The Mercian regiment today exercised their right to march through the streets of Glossop. We as a Council gave them the Freedom of the Borough 2 years ago. It was a very emotional day as these brave soldiers marched through Glossop. It was very heartening to see the number of people who came out to applaud them. I spoke to several soldiers and also to families who had lost relatives in Afghanistan - a very humbling experience and one that no one should ever forget when tough decisions have to be made about sending our troops into battle.  

SOCIAL INCLUSION COMMITTEE THEN HUMANIST GROUP

An evening of meetings. Firstly it is the Social Inclusion Select Committee which scrutinises the work done in my portfolio on HPBC. Following that I have been invited to the High Peak Humanist Group meeting. I enjoyed the discussions with the humanist group and it was interesting to learn more about them as a group and their interests and beliefs. 

LAFARGE CEMENT

Emma McClarkin MEP is in the High Peak today. I had a long standing invitation to visit the Lafarge cement works in Hope and they were delighted to welcome Emma along with me on the visit. The works employs a lot of local people in the Hope Valley and Lafarge do a lot of work around landscaping and also look to reduce their environmental impact wherever they can.

READING FOR GLOSSOP TALKING NEWSPAPERS

One of the charities for the 2009 High Peak Hike was Glossop Talking Newspapers. Emma and I agreed that we would come back to visit the group and help them reading the local papers for the blind. We spent a couple  of hours with the group during which we read several articles. We also did a joint interview with the group which was also recorded for peole to listen to.

GENERAL ELECTION BRIEFING

The election draws ever nearer. The Returning Officer from the Council has invited Candidates and Agents to a briefing aorund the procedures for the election. We attended together with the labour candidate and agent. Suddenly th general Election seems very real and very imminent ! Every waking hour now has the General Election in my thoughts - the planning, the leaflets, the doors to knock on. All we need is the starting whistle to be blown by the Prime Minister.

OPENING OF NEWSHAW LANE SKATE PARK

Following a day of campaigning I went to the opening of the new skate park in Hadfield. It was already being heavily used which was pleasing to see. As I looked round at the new skate park, the youger childrens play area and the new all weather sports pitch at the school it was very pleasing to see so many facilities now available in Hadfield for young people.

GENERAL ELECTION CALLED AT LAST

The election has been called ! This means I will be out and about across the High Peak almost constantly right up until the polls close on May 6th.  I may not be able to update the blog as often as I would like as I wont be near a PC that often, but whenever I get the chance I will do so check back regularly for campaign updates.

Today we are hitting the ground running as we start the delivery of our first leaflet. I am also attending Flagg races before going out meeting people in Buxton, Whaley Bridge and Chapel.

DAY 2

Today I was speaking to people at Glossop railway station as they boarded the train to work. Then it was a quick breakfast in Glossop before meeting shoppers in the High Street. A quick coffee at lunchtime was followed by visits and deliveries to Old Glossop before heading off to the Hope Valley where I met with shopkeepers in Castleton, Hope and Bamford.

After that I went into New Mills with more election information before going to the AGM of High Peak Cricket Society. A 16 hour day and the Labour candidate has the nerve to call me "jaded" !!!!

DAY 3

An early  start as I greet commuters,this time  in Buxton as they get on the train. Then down to Chapel to walk through the town speaking to shoppers and shopkeepers. Following that, down to deliver leaflets in Chinley, after which its a well earned sandwich at the Stocks Cafe in Chapel.

After lunch travel to Buxton to meet shoppers in Spring Gardens. There are lots of tourists in town which is good to see. After we have spoken to several local people doing their shopping its off to  Harpur Hill to deliver more leaflets. Together with the team we make short work of 400 leaflets.

DAY 4

Today I start canvassing intensely. I have been knocking on peoples doors now 3 days a week for several months, but now I will canvass almost solidly 6 days a week. (I dont believe in canvassing on a Sunday as people want their peace and quiet). We canvass Barms Ward this morning, Buxton Central in the afternoon and again in the early evening . Finish the day off with a visit to Buxton Conservative Club. Then home to sort and bundle leaflets - fall into bed about 1.30am.

DAY 5

Early start - deliver  leaflets to Bamford, before returning to Castleton. Its a beautiful morning and walking through the centre of Castleton looking at the new born lambs and the scenery makes  me realise how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful part of the country. We then canvass Castleton before moving on to Hope, then to Bamford, finishing at 4pm so as not to interrupt people wanting to watch the Grand National. Back home and change ready for Saturday night's event. I have agreed to take questions from Castleton residents at the home of someone who has offered to host the event. We start at 7pm and finish at 9.15pm after a lively discussion about many different issues. Following that I go into Castleton for an hour and arrive home around 11pm. 

DAY 6

POSTER DAY. As I have said, I don't think it is right to canvass on Sundays, so whilst others are out delivering leaflets I am out with our poster team putting up our posters and signs across the constituency. We go to all corners ofthe High Peak where people have asked for signs and posters in their gardens and on fields. Yet again the weather is kind to us. When people go to work tomorrow morning they will see the fruits of our labours.

DAY 7

A cold day dawns in the High Peak and first port of call is a breakfast meeting with my agent Rob Dean. Discussion around the campaign, yesterdays poster day and the week ahead. After that it's off out canvassing again, this time in my own Council Ward in Chapel. After lunch I am off to Glossop for the next set of hustings. These are at the invitation of Glossop and Hadfield Pensioners Association. I have visited the group on several occasions before. Together with the other three main party candidates, we take questions from the floor for approximately 2 hours. Then its back out on the streets again speaking to people on the doorstep. Tonight it is in Dove Holes. I really believe that the only way we can start to rebuild the trust in politics again is by getting out on to the doorsteps and speaking to people.

DAY 8

Today we focus on Cote Heath Ward and spend the day in Harpur Hill, apart from the morning when we go to Sterndale Moor. This is the last part of the constituency as you leave Buxton along the Ashbourne Rd. Lunchtime is a quick bite at the Pavilion Gardens, then up to Harpur for the afternoon and evening sessions of canvassing. Again we have a team at each canvas meaning we can cover large numbers of houses.

DAY 9

Into the second week now and our first second leaflet is being delivered right across the constituency. Today I am back into the Glossop area. First thing the team and I are canvassing in Padfield. The weather is holding fine for us but today the north wind is bitterly cold. After lunch in the Royston Vasey Cafe in  Hadfield the team move into Hadfield North Ward. I have got an appointment at Oakford Manor Rest Home to speak to the residents and staff. I am shocked to find someone I have  not seen for years is resident there. But residents and staff give me a good grilling on a variety of issues. After the visit I rejoin the team. The evening canvas takes us into Dinting Ward and around Heath Road. As darkness falls the team goes home and I head to The Lantern Pike pub for a well earned drink and a chat with the Leader of the Council, Cllr. Ashton. We decide to enter the pub quiz, but fail to win - I hope its not an omen.

DAY 10

Today we have our first Shadow Cabinet visit as Party Chairman, Eric Pickles comes to town. Eric arrives on the Party battle bus and addresses the team before he and I do a walkabout through Buxton. We meet a gentleman who knew both my father and grandfather. Eric is particularly intrigued when he hears that my grnadfather baked a cake for Nikita Kruschev during a visit to Buxton in 1958. After Eric has left its over to Glossop. I am determined to canvass in every single Ward in the High Peak and am confident we will achieve that by polling day. After a quick lunch,I visit another rest home,this time The Risings in Simmondley where like yesterday I take questions from residents and staff together with the joint owners. In the evening we move into Sett Ward and canvas in Birch Vale.

DAY 11

Today I am in New Mills for the whole  day focussing on the New Mills West Ward. The usual three canvas sessions toitalling 6 hours altogether. I have already worn one pair of shoes out !! An excellent lunch at Llamedos Cafe - or should I say all day breakfast ! Myself and the team work through different parts of the New Mills West Ward throughout the day. In the evening I visit the Conservative Clubs in Hayfield and then Fairfield in Buxton.

DAY 12

A beautiful day dawns for canvassing in Glossop but first we set our latest poster team out to put some more boards up in Buxton. I notice on my way to Glossop that it appears that some of our posters have been damaged.I am conscious that it is  the Manchester football derby today sowe wont canvas during the match. I know that football is not everyone's cup of tea, but I am sure those that are watching it dont want to be disturbed by us. We canvas the morning in Old Glossop but I think we might be out a little too early as there seems to be a lot of closed bedroom curtains. After a quick sandwich we then hold a street stall in Norfolk Square where we are very well received, hand out lots of leaflets and I chat to many people about many different subjects. Then its back into Old Glossop for more canvassing before suspending operations for a couple of hours to give the team a break. Then its back into the Shirebrook estate for another canvas session and move on to Glossop Conservative Club with Cllrs. George and Jean Wharmby. I encounter my first piece of animosity here during the whole campaign - ironic really considering where we are.  

DAY 13

We dont canvass onSundays so today we go round putting up some more posters and repairing ones tha have been damaged and vandalised. It means an early start to get them all done before an engagement in the afternoon.  

DAY 14

Back into  the canvassing today. I am canvassing for 6 hours a day now every day as I am determined to speak to as many people  as possible during the campaign. Today we are out in Whaley Bridge in the morning followed by Furness Vale in the afternoon. We also speak to parents as they drop their children off at school. We never encroach on to school grounds and never give the leaflets to  the children. In the evening I attend a meeting at the CVS about the future of Gamesley Villa football club who are facing problems about losing their ground. The meeting is constructive and a way forward is agreed which is positive

DAY 15

Today we are in New Mills and Hayfield during the day. New Mills East ward in the morning then Hayfield after lunch. Very contrasting issues are brought up  in the two sessions. The early evening canvas we move into Fairfield in Buxton. I canvass my grandparents old house on Overdale Avenue which brings back memories. Then I knock at the door of someone who used to nurse me as a baby !! On another doorstep a lady is staggered when I tell her that I am from Fairfield originally. Despite it being a bitterly cold day we have a good productive day. Then its back to the office to try and catch up with the mountain of mail and emails. Eventually return home  in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

DAY 16

Back to  Glossop for more canvassing today with the focus on Hadfield for the day. At night we have the CVS hustings in Whaley Bridge - at the last count I think we have 8 sets of hustings including a live High Peak Radio phone in. I think all  the candidates view these with trepidation, but its good that people are interested and getting involved. Most of the questions surround the voluntary sector which plays an important part in the community.

DAY 17

Today the Conservative Chief Whip and neighbouring MP. Patrick McLoughlin is in High Peak lending a hand. We concentrate our canvassing in Buxton, and take in a quick lunch at the Pavilion Gardens which is as excellent as ever. In the evening its the Amnesty International hustings, also in Buxton. Much of the focus is on international rights and development. 

DAY 18

Back into Glossop area today and a night of the hustings. Two in the last two days and two in the next two days, with none today. We canvass in Charlesworth first of all. Then its a quick lunch - I have found that the Wren Nest Pub does a carvery for £3.59 which is proving a god send at the moment as all meals tend to be rushed affairs. I spent the first few days of the campaign living off all day breakfasts ! In the afternoon we canvass in Gamesley. I have always been determined to canvass in every single ward across the High Peak and we are well on the way to achieving that. 

DAY 19

The first really big public hustings are being held today in St. Johns church, Buxton. I estimate over 100 people pack the church as we all answer questions on a wide range of subjects. We only  have 1 minute to give our answers which makes it really difficult to get everything you want into the answer. Following the hustings, I am  on a street stall in Buxton. There is a similar stall in Glossop too where we have Edwina Currie helping out. After the street stall  its back out on the doors, this time in Hayfield. In the evening I call into the Conservative Club in Chinley.  

DAY 20

Start the day out delivering letters to people before meeting upwith East Midlands MEP. Emma McClarkin who has arrived in High Peak to help out. We have delivery teams working flat out across the High Peak. In the evening its another set of hustings, this time in Glossop. A big public hustings which again attracts a big crowd. It is really gratifying to see the interest that people  have in this election. As candidates we all agree on this.

DAY 21

Back on the streets of Glossop, this time in Tintwistle. The visit to the village once again brings a stark reminder of how badly the village needs a bypass.

Meanwhile in Fairfield there has been a tragic fire where lives have been lost. This puts everything into perspective. I have told our canvas and delivery teams to pull out of Fairfield immediately as a mark of respect. Our Royal Mail Election Address is in mid delvery and we cant change that but other plans for the Fairfield area have been stopped.

DAY 22

Todaty its the turn of Chinley and Buxworth for the canvass team. Yet again the weather holds fair, incredible to think that we havent had a single session rained off yet !! In the evening its hustings number 7 ! Tonights it's in New Mills and again there is a good attendance. 6 of the 7 candidates are there which is the most we've had. A good 2 hour session but with 7 representatives on the stage we probably dont get through as many questions as the audience would have liked. There was concern that we were given advance notice of the questions. Whilst this is helpful to us as candidates, I would have been happy to answer them without prior knowledge if people had preferred.

DAY 23

Canvassing in Buxton again today as the team moves into Temple Ward. It seems as though the campaign has been running forever and Flagg Races on Day 1 seems like a lifetime ago. However I continue to lose weight, and the sunny weather means that people are now asking me if I have been on holiday because I am so brown.

DAY 24

As the canvas programm continues, I can now say that we have canvassed in every single Ward across the High Peak.  Tonight however its the High Peak answer to the leaders debate as the Candidates from the three main parties go live on High Peak Radio to answer listeners questions. Its interesting that the questions are very different from those asked at the public hustings orgnaised by the churches. We  deal with issues such as the economy, immigration, public spending. WHilst it is nerve wracking being on the radio live, in some ways its easier to relax as we arent on show visually. After the show the three of us all adjourn to a neighboruing pub for a drink. When we walked in it caused a few raised eyebrows to see the thre main party candidates having a drink together.

DAY 25

More doors, more canvassing. We are relentless in our canvassing and the troops are now beginning to look weary. I am overwhelmed by the amount of people joining the campaign and the effort everyone is putting in. I am lucky in that I can get by with little sleep so I start every morning at about 6am and finish around 10pm, but the hours others are putting in are astounding. My phone never stops this morning with text messages following last nights High Peak Radio show - people I know from up and down the country were listening on the internet - its amazing and demonstrates the power of the media to communicate. David did well in last nights TV debate too.

DAY 26

Late last night I got a phone call from George Osborne offering to come over and help with the campaign. We meet George in Glossop and walk through the town talking to shopkeepers and traders. The resounding message we get is to stop the Labour job tax which coud cause job losses in the High Peak. We meet an elderly couple who will be voting Conservative for the first time after a lifetime of voting Labour.  

DAY 27

Sunday today, so no canvassing, but there's still lots to do. Our posters which have attracted a lot of attention and comment are being vandalised with alarming regularity so they need some attention today. We travel from one  end of the constituency to the other reparing and replacing broken and damaged ones. Those that have personal comments about me we remove. After that its back to the emails to try and keep up with the huge amount that keep on coming. I think I am actually up to date when I fall into bed. (I have to admit though I do nipto the pub tonight as some friends are embarking on a trip to John O'Groats in a three wheeler for charity. They are due to set off on Thursday - so I fdid remind them to vote first !!)

DAY 28

Entering the final week now. Back on the canvassing trail this morning with my friend David Kerr who has come over from America for  the final week of the campaign. David has boundless enthusiasm and energy and is a real filip at just the right time. Following a morning on the doors we head ofto the Mayday celebrations in Chapel where David sees a traditionalvillage event,  including morris dancing. Then its back inot Buxton for more canvassing. Finish the day by checking preparations in the office for the actual day itself.

Apparently one ofthe other candidates has accused us of disturbing the bank holiday with a loudspeaker - this is not true. We only have one megaphone which is in the office,  so  unless one of the team have been out with it,  which I doubt, then its a mix up somewhere on her part.

DAY 29

The campaign continues ! Seven years work and effort and we are nearly at the moment of truth. In the morning it is a visit to the coffee morning in Tintwistle and a good chat with the residents. Then afterwards we canvass on, looking for those extra Conservatives who may well make the difference to the result  in just a few days time. Simmondley today and people are still incredibly  appreciative when I as the candidate knock on their door. The opinion polls are still showing it to be quite close but as I rarely get a minute for newspapers or television now,many ofthem are passing me by. As I have said and keep saying - there is only one poll that really counts and that is on Thursday.

DAY 30

The final day of campaigning. Catching up with the last few emails queries, returning the dozens of phone calls received and visiting people who requested that I visit them personally. Preparing our plans and organisation for the big day tomorrow. Sitting here at nearly 10pm I am overwhelmed at the number of good luck messages coming through. Some from old school friends I have seen for years. Lots of good luck cards too. The whole  adventure has been unforgettable and the final chapter has yet to be written !! If you are reading this I hope you have found it interesting and whilst I would have liked tohave written more on each day its difficult due to pressures of time. As I have often said, I wish someone woudlinvent a microwave bed - 8 hours  sleep in 20 minutes. In the words of  the film - 'tomorrow is another day'.