Amid the various other matters which have been filling the media this week I am always determined to remember that there is a job to do as a constituency MP and to carry on doing it whatever the distractions.

A new and unique event took place at the Bank Street last weekend and it was a real pleasure to take part.

One of the most important decisions for the future of thousands of commuters from Ashford, and other rail users, will be taken in the next few months. This is the decision over who will run the rail franchise for our area from the end of 2018 for the next nine years.

I was fascinated to read about the 60th anniversary of the Premier Foods factory, known of course to older readers and traditionalists as the Batchelors factory in Kennington.

Damian Green MP is encouraging all local A-level students in Ashford to take part in the Political Studies Association (PSA)’s Schools’ Video Competition, now in its seventh year. 

I attended two events last Saturday which in their own ways illustrate so much of what is good about our country and our area. At times when the world seems darker than ever it is important to remind ourselves about how much good we see around us.

Many people will have read with interest the recent report which showed that the high-speed rail service, which over the past ten years has been so vital for Ashford’s progress, adds about £73 million to the wider Kent economy.

One of the best features about Ashford has always been how many people are prepared to spend time and effort helping their neighbours, or even complete strangers.

In the midst of all the controversies swirling around Westminster about Brexit and other matters it is important to remember some long-term issues which transcend politics.

Damian Green MP for Ashford, has shown his support to Breast Cancer Now’s flagship fundraiser, wear it pink, which will see thousands of people across the UK adding a splash of pink to their outfits on Friday 20 October and raise vital funds for breast cancer research.