Last weekend was a triumph in mind over matter as I hiked the 11 miles from Stockbridge to Romsey as part of the annual Rotary "Walk the Test Way".  I try to do it most years, I think I skipped the year I had a broken shoulder, and the route sometimes varies a little, but it is now a familiar journey for me at the end of September.  I am still feeling the after effects and some pretty sore legs and feet.  I suspect I will be back to the Foot Clinic in Tee Court before very long.

I also had the opportunity to visit the new Mind Garden at Leckford which is a collaboration between the John Lewis Partnership and Andover Mind.  The garden has been designed and developed with well being and sustainability in mind.  There is a real focus on pollinator friendly plants, to keep them fed throughout the seasons, but that also means there is colour. The clover lawn was absolutely incredible, especially given the efforts many gardeners make to rid their lawns of the plant, but an entire lawn of it was a thing of beauty, and even at this stage of the year buzzing with insects.

A number of constituents have recently been in touch regarding the charity Young Lives V Cancer and I have been to visit Jean's House in Southampton which supports young cancer patients and their families. The atmosphere there was absolutely lovely, really welcoming and warm, and it provides such a boost to families who might otherwise really struggle to find accommodation close to the hospital when they need it.  I also met up with their representatives in Birmingham at the start of this week, to ascertain how I can help them in their efforts.

I did also squeeze in a quick trip to Edinburgh for the events to mark 25 years of the Scottish Parliament.  It was a real celebration of Scottish culture, with music and dance, and it was a privilege to represent Mr Speaker at the event.  The King and Queen clearly really enjoyed being there and the King spoke movingly of his Mother's love for the country, something he has clearly inherited. 

 

Rt Hon Caroline Nokes MP

Member of Parliament for Romsey and Southampton North 

Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons