Political Column, Author at Bedford Independent

Monthly column: Why Bedford Borough’s events showcase the best of our community

For almost 50 years, the River Festival has been an iconic attraction that has been woven into the very fabric of our community – attracting visitors borough-wide and beyond it is...

Monthly column: As England dreams again, Gareth Southgate’s legacy endures

As football fever grips the nation ahead of the World Cup kicking off on Thursday, former England manager Gareth Southgate has been on our TV screens in two very different programmes...

Monthly column: A brighter future needs a change at the top

We’re missing a trick in Bedford Borough. The Mayor is distracted by politics and resignations from his Cabinet instead of making sure local residents – and particularly our young people...

Monthly column: Summer of fun and safety

Over the next few weeks, we should hopefully be enjoying some super Bedfordshire summer weather. We shall also be enjoying the World Cup and, next month, the Bedford River Festival...

Monthly column: Don’t Lose the Ouse

In the recent heatwave, with the hottest temperature in May on record, some will have enjoyed time in their parks and gardens (perhaps seeking shade). But others might, like us Greens...

Monthly column: Positive developments are continuing across the Borough

In my last column, I wrote about the importance of investing in our Borough. That matters because councils should not just manage decline or leave key sites to sit empty...

Monthly column: We must deliver for young people in Bedfordshire

Young people across Bedfordshire are being let down by this Government time and time again. Since being elected as our MP in 2024, I have made it a priority to put young people at the heart...

Monthly column: Celebrating the best of Bedford and Kempston

One of the privileges of serving as MP for Bedford and Kempston is meeting people doing extraordinary things for others every day. In politics and the news more broadly, it can often feel as though...

Monthly column: Two years gone and two years ahead

Two years ago, in 2024, I had the privilege of being elected as Bedfordshire’s fourth Police and Crime Commissioner. I now know that I will be the last Police and Crime Commissioner as the...

Monthly column: East West Rail – Bedford Borough must be heard clearly, but decisions are not made locally

East West Rail is one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Bedford Borough in a generation. It has generated strong and often deeply divided views across our communities, particularly...