While Parliament is in recess, it gives me an opportunity to spend more time here in the Forest of Dean, meeting local businesses, charities, community groups and, most importantly, as many of you as possible.

One of the highlights of the past week was a coffee morning in Forthampton. It was particularly good to be in that part of the constituency and to hear directly from residents about the issues that matter to them, ensuring I’m hearing the concerns of all parts of the Forest of Dean.

Our conversations covered a huge range of subjects, including education, defence, farming and the acute impact that the ongoing roadworks on the A40 are having on our communities.

A big thank you to those who attended and spoke with me, as well as individuals who helped put the coffee morning on.

Following the coffee morning, my team and I took the opportunity to knock on doors and speak to even more residents in the area. This was a positive experience, and I’ll be doing the same in other areas across the forest, too.

Another issue I have been working on is the proposed changes to DIY waste disposal at Gloucestershire’s Household Recycling Centres. I know the introduction of charges for some DIY waste has caused frustration and concern for many residents.

I have written to Gloucestershire County Council and received a response setting out its position. The Council has confirmed that small amounts of DIY waste within the free allowance will remain free, while charges would apply where residents exceed the allowance or permitted number of visits.

I created a survey to hear directly from residents about how these changes could affect them. That survey has now closed, and I would like to thank everyone who took the time to contribute. Your responses are valuable in helping me understand the real-lived impact of these proposals.

If you would still like to share your views with me, please do get in touch at [email protected].

Finally, it was good to visit Suntory this week as it celebrated 80 years of manufacturing in the Forest of Dean.

For eight decades, the factory has been part of the fabric of our community, producing household names including Ribena and Lucozade and providing skilled employment for generations of local families.

It was particularly encouraging to see the continued commitment to the Forest of Dean, with more than £57 million being invested across the supply chain, including a new £25 million manufacturing line and investment in sustainability and electrification.

More than 300 people work at the site today, with apprentices beginning to build the skills that will carry this proud manufacturing tradition forward.

I am proud that the Forest of Dean is home to such an important part of British manufacturing. The investment being made here is a vote of confidence in our community, our workforce and our future.

As recess continues, I will keep getting out across the constituency, meeting people, visiting businesses and charities and listening to your concerns.