I wasn’t expecting to find myself on stage with Elsa from Frozen when I became an MP, but it was wonderful to announce the delightful winners of the Fancy Dress competition at Bishopstoke Carnival.
And what a brilliant community event it was, with lots of stalls and fun activities, and a great atmosphere.
My personal highlight was learning how to give CPR with the brilliant volunteers from South Central Ambulance Service.
We have superb community events in Eastleigh during the summer, including the Mela, Unwrapped Festival and Eastleigh Pride, and I know there is much more planned for the autumn – plus the return of Eastleigh Market.
A few weeks ago, I gave my maiden speech in Parliament. It was an opportunity to highlight some of the best things about Eastleigh including our beautiful River Itchen and green spaces, our arts, culture and sports heritage (with a nod to the late great Shane Warne), as well as our proud history of being a warm and welcoming community.
I also spoke about my commitment to ensuring all children and young people in Eastleigh are given the opportunities they deserve and mentioned brilliant local charities Youth Options and Pavilion in the Park.
Our 72 Liberal Democrat MPs are determined to hold the government to account on the issues which matter to our constituents.
We also have an honourable four-legged member, Jennie the guide dog, who supports our Torbay MP Steve Darling. Jennie is always happy to have a cuddle particularly if there's food around. She enjoys Prime Minister's Questions (a chance for her to stretch out and have a nap).
Of course, it's vitally important to work cross party on issues in Westminster if we're going to get things done, which is why I have become the Vice Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for State Pension Inequality for Women.
There are thousands of WASPI women in Eastleigh, and I will keep on fighting in Parliament until they get the fair and fast compensation they deserve.
As an MP I will always put my constituents first – so I voted against the Government's decision to scrap the Winter Fuel Allowance for many pensioners.
Withdrawing the allowance from those who badly need it to stay warm this winter was completely the wrong decision, and I remain very concerned about the impact this will have on local NHS services. I hope Rachel Reeves will think again, but meanwhile, if you know anyone who may be eligible for pension credit, please do encourage them to apply.
They can also do this via Citizens Advice on Leigh Road if it's easier than calling or going online.
Many constituents have contacted me about the future of some bus routes in the local area.
I hope that Hampshire County Council will take the needs of all residents who use these buses into account – including the students from Chandler’s Ford, Hiltingbury and Valley Park attending Peter Symonds College – when they make their decision on bus services later this month.
It's vital we have a safe and reliable public transport network that works for everyone in our community.
As well as supporting constituents, setting up my offices and recruiting my team, I have been meeting with groups and organisations whose work can have a positive impact on Eastleigh.
Last week I met with River Action UK to discuss what can be done to protect the River Itchen from pollution.
In my opinion the polluters should pay, not the consumer, and I will be continuing to hold Southern Water to account in Westminster. If you have an issue, you would like me to take up, you can e-mail me at liz.jarvis.mp@parliament.uk
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