It’s been a busy few weeks over recess, starting with a meeting with the Brilliant Barrow Board to catch up on the work they’re progressing including the Earnse Bay Hub, the Learning Quarter that will see more than 1400 places created for students in Barrow and new housing developments.

I also managed to attend the Battle of Britain Parade that not even the Cumbrian weather could dampen the spirits of, even though we all got a good soaking.

Labour Party conference brings many groups together, I was able to discuss local issues with multiple groups including Scouts, Marie Curie, Animal Free research UK, Cash Access UK, Spirit Energy, The National Farmers Union, groups both for and against assisted dying, WASPI women on their campaign for justice and many more. 

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The Australia night event offered the chance to meet Australian businesses and promote opportunities for investing in Furness. I caught up with the Australian High Commissioner and Deputy High Commissioner, along with Rt Hon Maria Eagle and the KOFAC team (Keep our Future Afloat Campaign) to discuss AUKUS and the deal that will help deliver well paid jobs for decades to come.

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Since being elected, I’ve been lobbying to make sure we get the funding we need here. It was a pleasure to join the Cabinet Secretary Simon Case and Sir Clive Alderton on their recent visit to Barrow and have assurances that a Barrow Transformation Fund will be delivered.

We were lucky enough to get an up-close view of Agamemnon just days before her launch and an incredibly proud moment for Barrow.

HMS Agamemnon in the water at Devonshire Dock (Image: BAE Systems) People often ask about the role of an MP and what a week looks like, so as an example of my past week during recess and the people I've met with:

  •  Dalton North Councillors, Spirit Energy,

  • WASPI women,

  • Amentun (formerly Jacobs) 

  • The mum of Caitlin Huddleston who tragically lost her life in a car crash and who is campaigning for changes in the law that would protect young drivers 

  • Bosses at UHMBT and the Integrated Care Board on their decision to reduce critical care provision at FGH

  • Vickerstown School,

  • Residents at Grizebeck over safety concerns

  • Sam Plumb Chief Exec at Westmorland and Furness Council

  • The headteacher at Sacred Heart and the Mater Christi Trust

  • Ulverston Town Team to discuss Borderlands Projects,

  • Andy Beeforth from Cumbria Community Foundation

  • Save our Sands Campaigners in Haverigg,

  • GSK management on reconvening the task force to assist their staff, work to secure future jobs, sports and leisure facilities and a lasting legacy for Ulverston

I also paid a visit to the newly refurbished Dock Museum.