It was great to be in Stockbridge on Sunday for the annual Trout n About event, celebrating local produce and craft and with a real festival atmosphere on the Sports Field. I managed to catch up with some of my favourite local producers, including the River Test Distillery, whose craft gin has been internationally recognised as one of the best. Of course the event would not take place without the wonderful and friendly marshals manning the road closures, parking etc, so huge thanks to everyone involved. I have been enjoying the macarons and New Forest Shortbread all week.
This week I met local businesses at Kimbridge Barn as part of Business South's annual programme of events. There is no doubt that SMEs are finding it very tough at the moment and especially in the hospitality sector. If I have one message to the Chancellor at the moment it would be that this sector cannot cope with any more tax rises, they are already really up against it. So I am looking forward to taking next week's work experience students on a number of visits to local pubs and cafes to do our bit to help! I have always been a bit of a fan of the "staycation" and using my time during recess to support local businesses rather than heading off overseas.
I have also been at Roke Manor, learning about their new build and some of the crucial work they do to support our armed services and national security. Not so much an SME, they are one of the constituency's largest employers and an absolutely fascinating place.
Next week is absolutely packed with visits and meetings, especially in the care sector, which is so crucial to our aging population. None of us like to think about needing long term residential care, or care at home, but it is the reality for increasing numbers. So I am very much looking forward to meeting residents and staff at a number of local providers.
Finally, this week I am also headed to King's Somborne to celebrate 137 years of "The Gauntlet" which is the parish magazine of the Sombornes. That is quite some record of longevity, and I well remember it from my time living in the village, absolutely everyone read it!