I was very pleased to have attended Labour's Election Manifesto launch this morning at the new Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. Gordon Brown did a very good job in his address. He outlined the huge differences between a Labour Government which has rebuilt schools, hospitals and public services, and the Tories who would make cuts straightaway to the public sector and cause job losses.

Most of the Cabinet were present, as were of course the Press and TV. The contributions from representatives of Sky and The Sun were not welcomed by the audience, but respect for the Prime Minister curtailed a potentially loud and critical aclamation to their negative questions (the BBC fell into a similar category) I shook hands with Gordon and told him I was representing Wyre Forest. He said, "carry on with the good work", and I said that I would. Now back home in Bewdley we are actively working on Labour's local campaign. Many people have clearly received my first Election Address and I have had many communications wishing the Party and myself good luck and success on Polling Day. I'm very grateful to those people who have responded in such a positive way.

Last Saturday, myself and a team of helpers held a "Meet the Candidate" event outside Kidderminster Town Hall. We gave away several hundred of my "Pledge Cards" and leaflets. I have to say the public's response towards me was very good - sociable and supportive. A Labour gain is suggested by such events and our excellent canvass returns. Remember on 10th December 2009, Jamie Shaw won his seat from the Tory on Wyre Forest District Council.

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