I was absolutely thrilled that the Prime Minister accepted my invitation to visit Broxtowe to discuss cycling in our community and, even more so, that he used sites and shops in Beeston - including the Canalside Heritage Centre and the Bike Lounge - to launch the Government’s £2 billion cycling revolution! This is a policy I am very passionate about as I have seen, and experienced, the benefits of cycling on our physical and mental health. It was a privilege to introduce local cycling groups such as Beeston Road Club and the Beeston Cycling Club to Boris Johnson. As far as I am concerned, this visit is just the start of an overhaul of the way we commute, exercise, stay fit and protect our environment in Broxtowe and I will actively campaign for better cycling facilities throughout the Constituency. Please do continue to fill out the survey on my website so that I can hear where you would like to see cycling paths, bike storage and other facilities in our community.

To encourage cycling in Broxtowe, I am launching my August Challenge and giving you the chance to be entered into a draw to win the 'Boris On A Bike in Broxtowe' helmet as worn and signed by the Prime Minister this week. Please check my Facebook page tomorrow for information on how to win. 

The Prime Minister also officially opened my constituency office in Stapleford. I am so excited to be able to start hosting constituents, businesses, charities and local stakeholders in my office over the coming years. To maintain social distancing and keep us all safe, I will not be accepting walk-in appointments yet but, if you would like to meet, do not hesitate to drop me an email with more information on how I can help.  

This afternoon I also visited the Millipede pub in Stapleford. My team and I have been supporting them to reopen in a covid-safe way and take advantage of this beautiful weather. Pouring the first pint of real ale straight from the barrel took me back to my days when I volunteered to run the RAF Wittering Bar after rugby matches  - and it was great fun to be working the kegs again and serve residents in a different way to my usual day-job!

My team and I are happy that the Government’s #EatOutToHelpOut scheme is launching on Monday. From 3^rd August 2020 to 31^st August 2020 you can get a 50% discount (up to £10) on food and soft drinks when you eat-in at registered restaurants from Monday to Wednesday. It is great to see so many local restaurants, cafes and pubs signed up, so please have a look online and start making plans. Whether you are saving money on a date night, celebrating a birthday or catching up with friends, this is a great way to support local businesses but also have some much-needed fun after an incredibly difficult few months.

I would also like to say a huge thank you to Broxtowe Borough Council. This week they shared that they have awarded over £17 million in grants to support local businesses. Whilst I was active in lobbying the Government for more support for businesses in Broxtowe, it is the Officers at the Council who have been instrumental in ensuring that 97% of those eligible have now received funding. My team and I have spoken to many businesses who are thankful for the Council’s swift action in developing processes from scratch and managing applications; the Officers deserve recognition for their tireless work!

As ever, if I can be of any help, please do let me know. I am continuing to work throughout recess and have upcoming meetings with local charities, businesses, housing developers and more over the coming weeks so please do get in touch if I can help, or you would like to meet. 

Stay safe, well and keep on enjoying your summer,

Darren