The summer in Chester North & Neston showcases the best our city, towns and villages have to offer. With Parliamentary recess ongoing, it has been the perfect opportunity to reflect and recharge through the wonderful selection of community events, country shows and fairs that run across the summer.
A few weeks ago, I was lucky enough to attend the Willaston Horticultural Society Show and see both the fantastic produce and floral arrangements on display. I was very encouraged by the enthusiasm of all the entrants and what a buzz there was around it.
Coming from that event, I reflected on just how important community groups such as this are and how vital they can be for the wellbeing of those involved; through connecting with others, being physically active and mindful of the present moment.
This holds true throughout the numerous community groups I have had the pleasure of meeting with over the summer. I recently held a surgery at the Rainbow Tea Rooms focused on issues directly facing the community there. I am very grateful to everyone who attended.
I had the pleasure of visiting Chester Cathedral’s Spirit of Summer programme, which offers attendees a plethora of activities for all ages with its impressive marble run, Postcards from Rhyl exhibition and schedule of free summer events. It also creates the space for moments of mindfulness and spirituality through the impressive ‘Kiosk’ installation.
For those with a sporting streak, Chester has several rowing clubs along our very own River Dee. Grosvenor Rowing Club, who I visited not long ago, have created a subsidised rowing course for those with Type 1 Diabetes; a very impressive and fantastic programme with a real focus on inclusivity.
There are many upcoming events to look out for, such as Chester Pride on Saturday 15th August with its wonderful parade, live entertainment and community stalls. I would also recommend catching one of the many brilliant shows fun by Storyhouse at the Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, which runs until Sunday 6th September.
Finally, I want to wish all A-level students receiving their results today, and those receiving GCSE results next week, the very best of luck. Well done for all your hard work and I hope you get the results you need.
I hold regular surgeries and meetings with residents; if you or anyone you know needs help in any matter, please get in touch with me at samantha.dixon.mp@parliament.uk.