IT HAS been a decade since Winchester's MP first won the constituency.

Now Steve Brine has told Chronicle reporter Sam Hatherley that he looks to the future.

"It's been an incredible journey," said the 46-year-old whilst pulling a shoe from his dog's mouth. "I've been involved in a period of huge change for the country and for Winchester, which is never an easy seat to win – noone owns Winchester.

"But I've survived three General Elections, and although last year was proof that it's never easy, I've still got the energy I had as a 36-year-old.

"The only difference now is that I have a wealth of experience – something I find incredibly useful and will continue use to help my constituents."

Mr Brine said that his career has taken a "huge toll" on family life but that his wife Susie has been supportive throughout.

"My son William was in Susie's tummy on that night in 2010 and when I look back, of course being an MP has taken a huge toll on family life.

"It's normal for my children to switch on the TV and see me standing there because I've been doing it all their lives. Emily takes great delight in seeing me wear one of the bracelets she's made for me on TV.

"I couldn't be where I am without Susie, who has been supportive through and through – but I've always said that family comes first and that I would stop if she wanted."

During the last ten years, Mr Brine has been part of the first coalition Government since the Cold War, sat in Parliament during Brexit and now during the coronavirus.

He says his favourite thing to do as an MP is case work; helping constituents solve their problems "no matter which way they vote".

"Case work is by far the most rewarding part – any MP will tell you that, and I couldn't care less which way they vote.

"For me personally, the hardest part is taking a stance on issues, such as Brexit.

"Politics isn't always black and white, there are many shaded areas, and when you have to vote on something you can cause a lot of pain – there's always another side.

"And although these situations have caused me regret in the past, it doesn't mean you should change your stance – MPs are human and do what they think is right."

Mr Brine has a passion for health-related issues and would take on the role of Health Minister or Sports Minister if offered.

He said: "I lost both of my parents to cancer so health is something close to my heart.

"But the backbench is the new frontbench! Ministerial positions aren't everything – I've learnt from my time on the front how to push all the right buttons."

Before ending the phone call, Mr Brine said that NHS and other key workers "deserve every clap they get", and that "we will pull through the coronavirus together".