My focus this week is on, pubs, churches, buses and bees - each in their own way mainstays of life.
Decent local pubs are at the heart of many communities. But about 40 pubs are closing each week, with job losses and millions of pounds lost to the economy.
The Pubs Minister has rightly launched an action plan with £4 million of government funding for practical support to community pubs. This will help publicans and provide more choice to pub-goers.
Churches of all types and different faiths also play a positive role in the life of the community. Whatever one's personal views, their activities often contribute to improving life for all.
It's only right, therefore, that the government lends a helping hand. The Communities Secretary has just announced a £50,000 prize to find and reward the best examples of faith projects across the country. I have written to all faith groups in Blaydon to suggest that they apply for this.
Buses are a vital means for many to go to the church or the pub but many blind, disabled and elderly people cannot use buses independently and with confidence. They worry about being stranded at the wrong stop and many give up using the bus altogether.
I have, therefore, backed a new campaign by the Guide Dogs Association called Talking Buses. It suggests that buses and coaches should have audible as well as visual announcements about the next stop and final destination to make bus travel easier and safer for passengers.
Finally, to the natural world. I have long had a bee in the bonnet about the plight of the honey bee and have raised it in the Commons.
Over the last 20 years the number of honey bee colonies has halved. Many wild flowers, trees and hedgerow plants would not set seeds without bees. They provide much of the pollination of wild plants on which birds and mammals depend.
The British Beekeepers' Association have just launched a great new campaign to encourage people to adopt a beehive.
This will help the Association to drive more research and awareness. Many people will get a great buzz out of adopting a beehive. I certainly will
It costs £29.50 and each adopter receives a jar of British honey or a jar of honey mustard, a fridge magnet, a wooden honey dipper, postcards, facts sheet and certificate. I am encouraging schools to take up the offer and save the honey bee. To sign up visit www.adoptabeehive.co.uk
Newcastle Chronicle and Journal
| Promoted by Paul Foy on behalf of Dave Anderson, both of St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Shibdon Road, Blaydon, NE21 5PT |