been a long week following the return from November .
On Monday I started the day by asking the Veterans' minister to join me in praising the work of Heywood-based charity Veterans Into Logistics and the amazing work they've been doing to support service leavers and tackle the shortage of HGV drivers. I was glad that he recognised the important work they've done and agreed to meet with them.
Later on I met with The Youth Group who work on mentoring and support for young people.
I really enjoyed talking about how we support the next generation, especially those who have lost out as a result of the pandemic. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to work together on projects local in future.
On Wednesday I was lucky enough to be drawn for a PMQ. I used it to invite the Prime Minister to visit Hopwood Hall College's Middleton campus to meet the staff and students and hear how learners were playing their part in our covid recovery.
Thursday was spent training with the Royal Marines in Weymouth. I'm constantly impressed by the dedication, motivation and general calibre of the people who defend us. It was a privilege to be able to join them.
On Friday I met with the team from the Co-op in Hopwood and their representative from the shop workers' Union USDAW. They wanted to brief me on the work they've been doing to highlight the alarming increase in violence against retail staff. I promised to work with them to highlight the issue in Parliament.
On Saturday as well as my surgery appointments I had the joy of joining local Councillors and the Mayor for the switch on of Heywood's Christmas lights and a festive fireworks display.
Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to put on such a fun evening.
Another long week awaits, but as always, look after each other and stay safe.
