Politically Speaking: By Andrea Jenkyns, MP for Morley and Outwood

This past few weeks we have come together as a nation on a number of occasions.

Firstly, in shock and grief at the sad news of the death of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, who was a dedicated and lifelong servant to our nation, and the Queen.

From fighting in World War Two in the Royal Navy to supporting our royal family and thousands of charities, including pioneering animal rights groups, he was an inspiration to us all.

I heard the news as I was travelling between constituency visits and I felt this loss deeply, as I know local people did too.

The tributes online and the messages sent to me from residents truly reflected the country’s admiration and respect for Prince Philip, and his whole family.

Our thoughts also, were with Her Majesty the Queen, who turned 95 just last week and once again I know the best wishes of the whole nation and commonwealth were with her in this difficult time.

On Friday last week we marked St George’s Day, a vitally important day in our nation’s calendar.

Traditionally, we hold huge celebrations for St George’s Day locally that are enjoyed by every generation.

I have taken great pride in attending the parade and events for many years but sadly due to the pandemic we were once again unable to mark the moment as we would like.

Instead, I asked local school children to take part in a St George’s Day themed drawing competition, in the hope that more would learn the story of our country’s patron saint.

I was overjoyed with the response, with so many fantastic drawings it was difficult to choose a winner!

After careful contemplation, I had to expand the prizes as there were too many great submissions!

Tilly (aged 6), Bobby (9), Edward (5), Oliver (5), Alice (6¾), and Max (3) will each receive a book token.

Their drawings are available to view on my website and in my constituency office window.

On April 12, the next step of the roadmap was reached which included gyms, hairdressers, and outdoor hospitality.

I know residents were keen to get out and get a haircut followed by a bite to eat and it was great to see our high streets so active again.

Ahead of reopening, I visited a number of local pubs and clubs across Morley and Outwood, including the New Albion in Alverthorpe and the Hare and Hounds in Ardsley.

Both local teams had done great work enhancing their outdoor space and ensuring patrons would be safe as they returned to enjoy themselves once again.

I also, once again, visited Outwood Grange Academy following their Easter break and met with the new head teacher there.

It was good to hear her great new ideas to build on the work of this excellent school.

I look forward to working with her, and all schools in the area going forward as we find new ways to ensure our young people are able to access the very best opportunities and help them achieve their goals.

As always, if you have any questions, problems, or concerns that you feel I could be of assistance with please do not hesitate to contact me and I will always do my upmost to assist.

Please email: [email protected]