By Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire

Thank you to all readers, whose care in following public health advice has meant we can look forward to enjoying summer safely. Please support all the local shops and hospitality venues that have reopened in a Covid-secure way.

While I and the whole Worcestershire team have been working hard on managing the impact of Covid-19, I’ve also been working closely with a wide range of people to look at what we can do to better protect our area from its periodic flooding. A Severn Stoke scheme has gone forward for planning permission and work is being done to see if the existing Powick scheme can be improved. As someone who has spent more than 13 years campaigning for a permanent flood protection scheme in Tenbury Wells, I am delighted that the Government has at last pledged nearly £5 million to fund that project.

As Covid-19 swept the world, Parliament and the business of Government has continued, albeit in a socially distant way. I’ve been pleased to see many strategic projects have continued as more of us work from home. Network Rail has been assessing a plan to install a new bridge at Pershore station meaning Wychavon District Council can build a new car park offering much more capacity for rail users, and the county has progressed its Long Term Active Travel Plans so we can walk and cycle more.

And just as Parliament has continued to sit, many Worcestershire schools have stayed open allowing key workers to do their jobs, and we all look forward to every school opening fully in September. Schools in West Worcestershire will be getting, on average, budget increases of 4.1 per cent next year with teachers getting an inflation-busting pay rise. Other public sector pay reviews have taken place with nurses due for a new pay deal at the end of their current three year agreement. I am sure you will join me in arguing for strong recognition. So, let’s make the most of our county’s wonderful attractions and enjoy summer safely.