After a truly hectic few months at Westminster, it was such a pleasure to be able to get away for a few days and spend Easter at home in Solihull.
But it’s a good thing that a change is as good as a rest, as there was plenty to keep me occupied this Easter weekend.
First, on Good Friday I joined everyone from Solihull Churches Together to take part in the Walk of Witness through the town centre. We did this to offer a simple testament to our faith in Jesus, and took the opportunity to reflect on the horrors he suffered on this holy day.
Our churches play a huge role in the life of our town, and I’m especially grateful for Churches Together’s outstanding work tackling homelessness in Solihull. I previously helped to draw up the Government’s landmark Homelessness Reduction Act, so I know how absolutely crucial effective action by local residents can be to keeping vulnerable people off the streets.
I also found time to join thousands of fans at Damson Park to see Solihull Moors’ last home game of the season. It was a great match, and a hard-fought draw against Leyton Orient means we’re still in with a shot at a playoff position and possibly promotion to the Football League!
The ground was packed – I learned afterwards it was an attendance record for the club – and it contributed to a fantastic atmosphere on the day. It’s great to see the community giving such strong support to the Moors, and I wish them the very best of luck for the rest of the season.
I also took an evening to finally dine at the new Asha’s restaurant, which recently opened in Touchwood. My wife Philippa and I had a lovely evening over some really delicious food.
Asha’s is a great West Midlands brand, and this new branch will provide a welcome boost to Solihull’s night-time economy. Earlier this month I dropped in to meet Dom, the manager, and his team and I’m sure they’ll go from strength to strength in the months ahead.
Originally published in the Solihull Mail, 23/04/19.
