The festive period for me is a time for relaxation, reflection and resolution. It is a time to think even more than usual of those who are not with their families for this special occasion; those away serving our country in the armed forces, and the emergency services working shifts to keep us safe; in the Metropolitan Police or on the wards of St George’s Hospital. I’ve also been taking the time to think about all of the fantastic community groups and campaigns I’ve been lucky enough to be involved with this year since my selection as Parliamentary Candidate for Tooting.
The past twelve months have marked a real turning point for our country and it has been encouraging to see the impact that this economic recovery has had on Tooting. I’ve had the pleasure of attending the launches of some great new businesses which are now thriving, and I’ve met with many residents who have found one of the thousands of new jobs that have been created in the area. We have also had news of existing employers moving into the constituency, such as Banham Security’s relocation into Earlsfield, creating 300 jobs.
A lot of residential and retail developments have got underway locally, such as those on Tooting high street. These are creating hundreds of new homes for our younger residents, as well exciting new restaurants, cafes and shops. I realise that there is still a way to go, but I am confident that 2014 will see further growth, opportunity and investment in our wonderful corner of London.
Twelve years ago, I chose to move to Tooting, and soon after started my business in the constituency. It was the diversity, energy and sense of community spirit here that made my wife and I want to commit further to the area by buying a flat here in 2009. And it was these same factors that made me become so active in the community, spending weekends volunteering and campaigning with a range of fantastic community groups. This year I decided that I wanted to take my desire to help the residents of Tooting a stage further, culminating six months ago in my selection here as the Conservative candidate for the next General election.
In the next twelve months I will continue this work, meeting more local groups, launching new initiatives and getting to know even more of you. The community spirit in Tooting is what makes it such a wonderful place to live and work; it is why I am excited for what 2014 will bring and it is why I hope to be elected as your MP in 2015.
I wish all of you a happy and peaceful Christmas and New Year.