What a cracking start to 2008. Government has provided A1 Housing with its first £11.5 million for vital council house repairs, with as much guaranteed for next year.

We have five ways end roundabout near completion and Blyth roundabout soon to be opened.

On Monday I am back in Parliament. I have three invitations that I cannot make. Valley and Portland are both open for the first time and Retford’s £5 million doctors surgery is also open for inspection.

When did this area ever have so much good news and so much spending before?

I go back down to Parliament intending to continue this turnaround in our fortunes. Whatever good is going, we want the best of it. There is money being allocated for youth centre’s and today we welcome the alcohol Minister to meet a group of 17 years old who are advising me on alcohol policy. Their wisdom will be put in front of the Prime Minister.

Youth has had a bad name for long enough in these parts, now we need to celebrate the achievements of young people.

I still get moans about how easy their exams are, how it isn’t like the good old days. I therefore offer the older generation a challenge. I will find some exam markers and I offer you the opportunity to sit maths, science and English exams in order to prove me wrong. I pick these because the knowledge should not have been lost. Who dares volunteer?

I also offer keen young people the experience of working in my office- in Worksop and if you have accommodation in Westminster. And every school is invited to Westminster.

In fact every group is invited who wishes to see the Palace o0f Westminster in all its glory.

There is plenty of hot air, so it’s warm enough in winter and it is the most extraordinary of places to visit. So roll up, roll up and book your group or family in for a tour 01909 506200 or mannj@parliament.uk.