Last week a hundred new jobs announced at Solway Foods - though rumour has it that the actual number of new jobs may well end up being quite a lot higher. Now B&Q are restructuring and bringing an additional 250 jobs to Worksop.

What this shows is how we need long term planning to attract in new jobs. It is over eight years since I sorted the Manton pit site water problems. Without this intervention no jobs would be on the site. Steetley lay idle for seven years while it was marketed. The folly of backward thinking local councils is to sell off industrial land. Retford has sold their off theirs and Retford residents will rue the day these bad decisions were made.

Currently Bassetlaw is developing its land use plan for the next 20 years. The Local Plan should be being discussed throughout the area. Yet I am seeing and hearing very little. From housing on Kilton Forest to the huge expansion of villages, to traveller sites and industrial land this document is vital. Everyone should demand a copy from the Town Hall immediately. Ask them for a copy of the consultation document on the Bassetlaw Local Plan.

I see that two local councillors have been elected to new jobs as vice chairs of the Police Authority: Councillor Glyn Gilfoyle and Councillor Michael Quigley. It is about time the North of the County was represented at this level. Considering that Councillor Quigley is also on the County Council, the Health Trust and is paid to be full time leader of Bassetlaw Council I wonder how he finds the time to do all these jobs? No wonder he never has time to meet yours truly!

The police again helped organise Drop In Friday Night Football last week. It's a good idea. I would like to see the idea spread and every Friday evening have drop in football or basketball across Bassetlaw. It gives young people something positive to do and is a good use of police time for two hours a week and will help reduce crime.

This is the last call for my annual Veterans Day event, on 26 June at 3pm in Retford. All Bassetlaw veterans and service personnel are welcome: please ring 01909 506200 or email mannj@parliament.uk for tickets.