One of the more rewarding aspects of being the local Member of Parliament is talking to you about the issues which affect Rochford and Southend East.

This week I decided to try something different and so thought it would be a good idea to ride my bike around the constituency of Rochford and Southend East.

Recently, we have seen a number of announcement concerning the improvement of transport in and around our town. In this week’s newspapers it had been announced that Southend Borough Council is supporting a new relief road to the east of the town.

Last Saturday I had the privilege of delivering a cake to the hardworking volunteers who took part in the Beachwater clean-up event to show my appreciation.

Now that both the A level results and the GCSE results have come out it’s clear to see just how well our schools have done. The hard work that our local students have put in really paid off and I am sure so many of them are thrilled with what they have achieved.

For people with disabilities a Blue Badge can be the key to a more independent life. Allowing them to visit loved ones, visit the shops along the High Street or simply enjoy the seafront, without having to tackle a long journey between their car and their final destination.

Air quality is an increasingly relevant issue as it is evident on a local, national and global scale.

Helping with the mail sorting process at Short Street sorting office and personally delivering post throughout the constituency, I learnt a lot on Friday. I have a greater appreciation for our postal workers and the postal service they provide us daily.

With tourists out in force this week thanks to the nationwide heatwave it is no wonder Southend traders have had a week like no other.

With such great weather now, one would ask why leave Southend?  With the start of school holidays, a lot of families are jetting off to shores far and near.

These can be some of the most enriching experiences. Allowing us to experience new cultures, new foods and new environments.