I’d like to begin my first weekly column as your new MP by expressing my sincere and deep gratitude for putting your faith in me a few short months ago.

Voters in this constituency made history with a 45 per cent swing to Reform and I will do my best to fight for you, bring investment to the area and be your champion.

It will be a privilege to serve.

I will use this regular update in the Gazette to keep you up to date with my activities in Clacton and the surrounding towns and villages but also within the House of Commons itself.
And what an interesting few months it has been so far.

At times I have felt like the new kid at school, from getting lost in the winding labyrinth of corridors and even not knowing how to scan my pass to register my first vote!

I have spent a lot of time setting up offices and hiring staff. Lots of progress has now been made.

Closer to home, I am deeply shocked by the recent spate of fires in Jaywick, Little Clacton and Clacton Town Centre.

My thanks to Essex County Fire and Rescue Service for their swift response.

I have since visited two Fire Stations in the area, Clacton and Weeley, and will soon be launching a new fire safety campaign in support of Essex Fire and Rescue Service, to ensure local properties have lifesaving smoke alarms installed - especially in older properties. 

On behalf of every resident, I also congratulate local hero Ellie Challis for her amazing victory and new British record in the Paralympic Games. An incredible achievement!

This week I found out the sad news that former Clacton Urban District Councillor (as it was then known), Member of the European Parliament and Frinton resident Jeffrey Titford has passed away. I could not have known a more honourable and decent man. He will be sorely missed.

If there is a local issue that you think deserves more attention in the future, do not hesitate to get in touch.

When I was campaigning in the election, I said I will fight for you and your priorities.
Now you have elected me, that’s exactly what I intend to do.