THE Stroud Valleys and Vale were honoured by a special visit from the Princess Royal who came to formally commemorate and open Stroud Brewery Bridge, the newly refurbished canal lock nearby and the Vale Community Hospital located in Dursley.

Although the day started off with cold and icy weather conditions, nothing could subdue the excitement of the people involved in these events.

Three organisations Stroud District Council, Cotswold Canal Trust and Gloucestershire NHS had much to celebrate and they all ensured that guests and onlookers could be properly involved.

Celebrating these achievements is important but it is also essential to recognise the contributions so many people make in delivering such worthwhile outcomes.

Professionals, volunteers, contractors, civic leaders and the surrounding communities were all represented and appreciated.

A new bridge, part improved canal and hospital is great new news for our area.

This kind of investment feeds into the economy in many ways, including engineering work for local businesses, new employment opportunities, better healthcare outcomes, investment in infrastructure and new tourist opportunities. In putting the spotlight on these successful projects we are reminded that things are happening and will continue to do so.

Elsewhere in the area, other successes are being highlighted.

The Community Workshop based in Nailsworth is an excellent example of how education in a wide range of crafts can help many people in many different ways.

Through learning and developing skills, individuals are gaining self-confidence, community participation and satisfaction in making things of beauty.

The snowy conditions did not deter me from doing a tour of villages in the form of a mobile surgery.

This is a useful way to ensure that I can properly represent all aspects of life in the Stroud Valleys and Vale but also to make it easier for people with specific issues to bring them to my attention.

More such tours are planned.

If you would like to discuss the issues raised above, please contact me on 01453 751572 or visit my website www.neilcarmichael.co.uk