A busy week in Shepway

The last week has been pretty 'action packed' for me in Shepway - only space for a few highlights! On Monday I was asked by a local resident in New Romney to go and visit her as she was suffering persistent troubles with local young people attacking her home and garden. She called at 8pm - I was there by 8.20pm. It is appalling anyone should have to suffer this kind of problem. It is particularly bad that such behaviour is often directed at the elderly. Behaviour of this kind is all too common across Shepway. The good news on this occasion was the swift response of the dedicated local Policeman PC Andy Porter when I called him. Within a day, he had visited the lady, reassured her and adjusted his patrolling to make sure that this behaviour is challenged. A brilliant example of the beat Policing that most local people are crying out for in our area.

Friday evening I was privileged to be invited to see the art exhibition staged by pupils of St Peters School, Folkestone held in the gallery at the top of the Old High Street. Three things struck me. First was the quality of the work - simply amazing that a relatively small school could stage it. Second was the enthusiasm and joy of the governors, staff and children. Third, was the pleasure of seeing the gallery building being put to such good use.

On Saturday morning I undertook the 7 mile sponsored walk from Folkestone to Hythe along the shore organised by Folkestone Rotary in aid of the Air Ambulance and other charities. I have made the trip between the towns thousands of times by car. Walking it in glorious sunshine revealed the stunning beauty of this part of our coast line. In the afternoon, I managed quite a suntan manning our stall at Lydd Club Day!

A busy week that shows what a fascinating and diverse area we call home.