It’s natural at this time of year for us to reflect back on the year just ending and think about what the opportunities the next may bring.

Over the last year we have started to see the economy turn from one of the deepest and longest recessions for generations.

Businesses I talk to in the constituency are all reporting more optimism and increased activity. Unemployment just this week shows that more people in our area, and across the country, are now in work and that youth unemployment, a particular concern of mine, is also down.

Whilst there is still a long way to go, this is all very encouraging news and should help us enter 2014 in better state than we entered this year.

Throughout the year I have tried to represent my constituents as best I can. I attended the inquiry into the City Council’s housing plans for the next 14 years to express to the inspector my view that the housing targets set by them is far too high and unrealistic and will threaten the greenbelt we all love. The strain on primary school places in the area has been a big issue and I will continue to work with head teachers, governors and parents to ensure we have the solution we need.

And the children’s heart unit continues to occupy a lot of my time.

Next year I will continue with these and many other issues and fight to try and make sure our needs are put in front of ministers, a number of which have agreed to come and visit.

I would also like to pay tribute to the many volunteers and community groups I have met that do so much hard work to improve all of our lives and our community. They do sterling work.

To conclude, I wish all of my constituents a very happy Christmas and peaceful and prosperous New Year and pledge to do all I can to serve you, both locally and in Westminster.