Life continues at a frantic rate. South Dorset is certainly one of the widest constituencies – over 30 miles from end to end - which makes getting to appointments a challenge. We now have a map in the office, so that my London team doesn’t book me in to successive visits in Swanage and Portland within a 15 minute time slot! And with the help of my trusty motorbike, I usually make it.
The recent Swanage Conservative Club centenary celebration was a great occasion, attended by so many familiar and friendly faces. They have an outstanding team there. It was a fantastic afternoon, and I was invited to hand out 100th birthday commemorative glasses to local supporters.
I was greatly cheered by the news that the threat to our lollipop ladies (and gentlemen) has been largely averted. Dorset County Council has agreed to spare 50 of the 60 who are currently patrolling school crossings. My congratulations to all those involved in the campaign, especially Helen Toft, who galvanised everyone into action and very kindly thanked me for my part in the fightback.
I enjoyed my recent training expedition with the Swanage Lifeboat under the expert guidance of coxswain Martin Steeden and his crew, which includes his sons, Gavin and Matt, who are clearly following in their father’s footsteps. During the exercise, we located and ‘rescued’ some missing divers. Sadly, one of those recovered - a dummy named ‘dead Fred’ – allegedly perished, while the rest were saved. As a diver myself, I found the lessons on dealing with diving accidents riveting. While the winds were calm that evening, spring tides made the sea a little lumpy, which gave me a small insight into the challenges faced by our lifeboat crews. I have nothing but admiration for these brave volunteers whose courage and competence under the most treacherous conditions is truly heroic.