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This month MP Nigel Evans listens to a speech on new trade deals, visits the Gibbon Bridge for breakfast and enjoys a Ribble Valley wedding
I do get asked to do some strange things in my capacity as an MP and they don’t come stranger than being asked to put a python around my neck at the Longridge Hall and Lodge Open Day! The residents really threw themselves into the event with plenty to eat and a mobile pet zoo. The staff and residents really enjoyed a fantastic day. The python was eventually removed by its keeper.
I went to William Hill in Clitheroe in order to place a charity bet in aid of research into cancer. Sadly I know very little about horse racing but despite my horse failing to win, William Hill still donated £50 to the charity. Thank you!
I had an amazing breakfast at the wonderful Gibbon Bridge Hotel and the irrepressible owner, Janet Simpson, cooked me the biggest goose egg I’ve ever eaten – it was delicious. The gardens are now in full bloom and with the great weather, I felt we had our very own Kew Gardens.
I went into Speakers House to listen to Liam Fox tell me how well the UK will do with new trade deals after we leave the EU, and whilst there I spotted the full portrait of Michael Martin, the previous Speaker. Sadly Michael had died that week and I have fond memories of him remonstrating with me when I drifted out of order. I can hear his Glaswegian lilt telling me to stick to the point.
I visited Tarmac in Clitheroe to see their incredible operation. I didn’t realise how many different types of stone is available including our very own sandstone, which is cut into different sizes and stored on site ready for use. I was also impressed with their backing of the apprenticeship programme which is really great news for young people starting out in their first job.
I visited another amazing firm based in Preston called Recycling Lives. They work with several prisons to train and offer inmates skills which they use with the firm when they leave prison. The level of reoffending is incredibly low and I witnessed their pride in being given a second chance.
Finally I witnessed one of our brilliant hotels provide a stupendous wedding breakfast for Craig and Becky as they start their married lives together. Mytton Hall is one of the jewels in our hospitality crown and the sun shone as we helped celebrate their great day.
We are so lucky to have so many fantastic places around the Ribble Valley which acts like a magnet for those looking for quality food and service. As I looked out over the terrace onto the rolling fields beyond I felt so privileged to be the MP for such an awesome area! You can’t choose better than a Ribble Valley wedding.
