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Last Saturday, I went on The Alban Pilgrimage procession. We went from St Peters Church, ending up at the Cathedral where we witnessed the ceremonial slaying of Alban!

The Eucharist that followed was a wonderful service, and lunch was served in a marquee in the garden of Sumpter House, the residence of the Bishop of St Albans. A very well-organised day filled with bright colours, fun and great conversation. Congratulations and many thanks to all involved

I  visited the Digswell Place Riding for the Disabled Association last Sunday for their Show Day. As well as watching the showing, fun showing and show jumping, I was given a tour around the stables and had lots of interesting conversations with volunteers and staff.

I learned about how riding massively benefits those with disabilities physically (strengthening the muscles and exercising the pelvis) as well as giving them more self-confidence, and being a great way of socialising. It was a beautifully sunny day and a wonderful way to celebrate a great cause!

Afternoon tea last Thursday to celebrate CDA Herts 50th Anniversary. I learnt much more about CDA Herts and their impressive work, particularly about their Partnership Initiative. I met many interesting new people and it was a most enjoyable event with cake, music and lots of chatter! Thank you very much for having me.

My wife Susie and I visited a Crucial Crew session at the St. Barnabus Centre in Thorley.

Crucial Crew is a national initiative to help children in years 5 and 6 be more aware of issues such as personal safety, fire safety and bullying. It is delivered locally through ASPECTS, by volunteers and the emergency services. We were given a tour, sat in on many of the sessions which were excellently delivered and got to speak to lots of the children.

A very interesting and worthwhile visit with lots to learn about keeping kids safe. Keep up the excellent work!

I visited the offices of Road Victims Trust (RVT) which covers Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire.

RVT work with the families, friends and loved ones of those involved in fatal road accidents. They also work with surviving drivers, passengers and witnesses. RVT do excellent early stage work to relieve some of the negative mental and physical effects of trauma associated with fatal accidents.

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This visit was fascinating and touching, and their work is extremely important. 

HM The Queen visited Berkhamsted on Friday 6th May. Many hundreds of people lined the streets of Berkhamsted waving flags and holding bunches of flowers to give Her Majesty. After meeting us all in the line-up outside the church, HM The Queen unveiled a commemorative plaque in St Peter’s Church. This was followed by a service with superb choir performances. We then walked to Berkhamsted School for HM The Queen to take a tour, before we were all given lunch in the main hall. Finally, HM The Queen unveiled a plaque commemorating the school’s 475th anniversary. It was a most enjoyable and uplifting day and a truly memorable Royal visit.

The Duchess of Cornwall visited the Royal Veterinary College in Hatfield on the 28th April to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Queen Mother Hospital for Animals. The hospital was very impressive, and highly advanced in both its treatment of animals and its medical research. A magnificent cake was cut by the Duchess who then unveiled a plaque to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the hospital. It was a fascinating day, and I'd like to offer a big thanks to all of those involved!

A large group of us gathered in Stevenage town centre before the Vice Lord Lieutenant, Richard Beazley, lit the beacon and there was a fireworks display. After this, everyone went inside for refreshments. It was an enjoyable evening and a worthy way to celebrate Her Majesty’s 90th birthday!

His Royal Highness the Duke of York visited Ashridge on Wednesday 13th April. It was particularly great to hear the Duke of York's support for the entrepeneurship being nurtured at Ashridge and Hult International Business School. Thanks to all of those at Ashridge for a thoroughly enjoyable day.