Next week is the 70th anniversary of the Queen’s accession to the throne. Before the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, it’s a time we can reflect upon the achievements of a remarkable woman. In doing so we recognise the dedicated and dignified service she has provided to our nation, and the Commonwealth, during her reign. The Queen demonstrates a timeless quality that is central to the British character – an interest and concern for those around us.
Last week I saw these qualities shine through in those I met out-and-about across the constituency. Anyone who meets my colleague Councillor James Bensly will know he always seems to be smiling. And it was no different when we met up last week. He briefed me about opening the new Great Yarmouth hub, operated by TimeNorfolk, to help those families devastated by pregnancy loss. From his own personal experience, it’s a cause that is important to James and his family. He was delighted that families and couples could now access specialist support in the Great Yarmouth area.
James was grinning as I kitted up at Hemsby Lifeboat Station to head out offshore on a rather bumpy sea. It was pleasing to see how along with James, and fellow councillor Noel Galer, we had helped purchase new equipment by persuading government officials to provide funding towards costs. Coxswain Dan Hurd and his lifeboat crew spend countless hours not only training but also fundraising so that they can help others who are in trouble whether off our coast or on the waters of the Broads. It takes a special person to put their own lives at risk to help others in distress. It’s a mammoth undertaking supported by a network of friends and family.
Another local hero is Trevor Saunders, who runs the non-profit organisation Mandalay Wellbeing. We chatted about the work to help people in our community. Trevor distributed over 40,000 food parcels to the most vulnerable during the pandemic. For organisations like this accessing funding is hard work, and we discussed what help is required and where it might be found. Whilst Mandalay faces challenging times, Trevor will continue helping others, demonstrating the very best of the British spirit.
