It has been a sombre month for British politics. The tragic death of Sir David Amess MP has left us all shocked and appalled at the brutal murder of a thoroughly decent man, fulfilling his democratic duty meeting with his constituents face to face. I am sure all in Tamworth and our villages will join me in our condolences to his friends, family and the residents of Southend.

I know I have spoken to some of you in person about this tragedy, and about being able to visit and host surgeries in and around Tamworth. Many readers will have been to my surgeries in the past, spoken to me on the telephone or met me out and about in town. We must be careful about security, but we must also be careful to ensure Members of Parliament are available to residents – that is why my surgeries will continue, I will still be visiting businesses, group events and organisations and you will still see me out knocking on doors and listening to your concerns.

This has all come during a period of recess in Parliament, as with October comes the annual Conservative Party Conference. The conference showcased what the Government will do in the coming year, with an emphasis on levelling up - driving investment and growth across the Midlands, Staffordshire and Tamworth. I met many industry experts and senior officials to raise concerns that you in Tamworth and our villages have raised with me. Among others, I met BT to query their plans for the new national broadband rollout and what positive effect that may have for coverage in Tamworth. I met the Post Office, to discuss support for our local branches that are needed in our communities. 

As Parliament has been in recess, I have been back working in the constituency on my local campaign to re-open our GP surgeries and get our local healthcare back. It is important that we get face the face consultation up and running again. I know the Minor Injuries Unit is going to reduce their opening time by 60 minutes temporarily. The NHS Trust has reassured me this will return to normal as soon as it is safe to do so, and I trust this temporary measure will allow the shift in staff availability to be rectified whilst the MIU continues to provide excellent care.

I also had the privilege of opening our new Anker Valley Primary Academy and it was fantastic to see so many pupils excited to start their first term (ever) and I am sure this school will see many bright and talented students pass through its doors in the years to come. The Tamworth Food Festival was also a great hit this year, and I was glad to see so many local businesses take part with over thousand visitors this year. I am so pleased to see local business in Tamworth busy and bustling. We must do all we can as individuals to support our high street.

As always, my team and I are here to help and represent you, so please do get in contact with us if you feel we are able to. Please do this by emailing me at christopher.pincher.mp@parliament.uk.