Rural counties like Norfolk face much higher costs than urban areas – which are seldom reflected in the Whitehall funding formulas.

Having spent 12 years working on the SubStations at Necton to help Necton and other affected villages get the community benefit and compensation they need I’m very concerned by this latest proposal.

The Dereham Post Office is a vital hub for the local community. As Dereham as a town grows in population (with more new housing planned) and with a retired elderly population - this is an outrageous proposal by the Post Office which makes no sense. 

When we think of our health, too often, as a society, we neglect to consider the importance of our teeth. Dental health is a crucial part of NHS services however and it is vital that EVERYONE can access the support they need.

Rural schools have higher costs compared to those in urban areas and, for decades, were very often underfunded in comparison to their urban counterparts.

How we take care of, and educate, some of our most vulnerable people is a measure of us as a society. EVERYONE has the right to a good education. 

I have launched a campaign for ‘The Innovation Express’ between Norwich and Cambridge. Despite being only 50 miles apart, travelling between the two places is difficult and takes too long.

I believe we stand on the cusp of something special in our area, a once-in-a-generation chance to drive a new cycle of growth, investment and jobs.

Having grown up on my stepdad’s farm and previously worked as Parliamentary Officer for the NFU, I have always had a strong connection with our agricultural industries and the environment.

For all of those of us that love and appreciate our beautiful rural and coastal landscapes here in the East, it is clear that the current chaotic “free for all” approach to delivering offshore wind infrastructure is unsustainable in the long term.

For too long our area has suffered from poor broadband and mobile phone coverage.

For many people, social care is considered as elderly residential care. The reality is far more complex though.

Local pubs are so often the beating hearts of our towns and villages. Not only are they vital for our local economy, they do so much great work in their communities and help generate the famous  rural community spirit that our beautiful part of the world is renowned for.

I’ve always been a vocal supporter of, and campaigner for, our rural post office branches – and I continue to advocate on their behalf and the communities that depend upon them.

Anyone familiar with Mid Norfolk knows that our area is home to a much loved sense of spirit and community that binds us all together.

Domestic violence and abuse skyrocketed during the Covid lockdowns – with Norfolk alone seeing a 40% increase. 

Mental health provision has long been an issue very close to my heart. I have seen first-hand how mental health issues affect friends and family members and can destroy lives. 

Brain tumours kill more people under the age of 40 than any other cancer. They are indiscriminate and can affect anyone at any age – with 16,000 people diagnosed every year.