In this week of commemoration for the victims of 9/11, in the wake of the West’s withdrawal from Afghanistan and in the aftermath of a pandemic, it is a delight to write about something that is full not of sorrow but of joy.

After a bumper Bank Holiday weekend of events in Ross-on-Wye, and with the Walking Festival soon to come, the value of Ross as a lively and fun tourist destination is clearer than ever. 

Barely two weeks on from the early news of the final US withdrawal from Afghanistan, the scenes of suffering and bloodshed, and the fears of local people for the future, have been absolutely heartbreaking.

We are now in the last month before NMITE opens its doors for the first time on September 6th. It is incredibly exciting to think that an institution is about to be born that--with our continued collective love and support--could lift the economy and well-being of Herefordshire and the Marches forever.

Over the past twenty years, The Courtyard has made itself into an amazing centre for the arts and culture in Herefordshire, whether film or theatre or dance or music or the panto, featuring local work and visiting shows alike.

The pandemic has been a very difficult time for the whole country. But if one of its consequences is that more people across the UK come to Herefordshire and visit Ross-on-Wye, that could be a real boost for local businesses and tourism.

Jesse Norman calls out agencies’ “inadequate” response to tackling phosphate pollution in the River Wye.

Local MP Jesse Norman has expressed his delight at the launch of the new UK Infrastructure Bank.

 

I am delighted to write about the wonderful news that Hereford has been awarded £22.4 million from the Stronger Towns Fund. I got a hint of it when I welcomed the Secretary of State for Housing, Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP, to open the terrific new Shell Store at Rotherwas a week before the announcement.