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It was a real honour to present 45 people with the

It was a real honour to present 45 people with their British citizenship certificates this week. 🇬🇧
The recipients, who originated from nine different countries, were all such warm and inspiring individuals. Many have been living in the UK for many years, contributing to our communities and society in meaningful ways.
Each new citizen also received a commemorative gold coin to mark this very special milestone. It was a truly joyful day, and a privilege to celebrate this important moment with them and their families.
I was able to remind everyone of the history of the Magna Carta, the hard-won freedoms of the people to vote in a democracy, and the enduring importance of the rule of law — principles that remain central to our society today.
All three ceremonies concluded with a hearty rendition of “God Save the King”, bringing a wonderful sense of pride and unity to the occasion.
Congratulations to all our new citizens and very best wishes for the future. 🇬🇧

What an incredible start to the Formula 1 season!

What an incredible start to the Formula 1 season! 🏁

Congratulations to the Mercedes team for securing first and second place at the opening Grand Prix of the year in Melbourne — a fantastic achievement and a testament to the dedication, innovation, and teamwork behind the scenes.

It made the moment even more special having recently had the opportunity to visit the Mercedes Powertrain facility, a real pride of Northamptonshire, employing around 500 highly skilled people and showcasing world-leading engineering and innovation right here in our county.

My sincere thanks to Cllr Peter James for kindly arranging the visit, and to The High Sheriff of Leicestershire who joined me as a guest for such an inspiring experience.

Following our visit, I am also hopeful that we will be able to arrange a follow-up meeting to explore the possibility of apprenticeship opportunities for ex-offenders, to help create pathways back into skilled employment and a positive future.
Wishing the team continued success for the rest of the season! 🏎️

#MercedesAMG #Formula1 #F1 #Northamptonshire #apprenticeships

I had an inspiring evening with the Northampton Po

I had an inspiring evening with the Northampton Police Cadets this week. After performing an inspection of the well turned out cadets, I was invited to observe the breadth of classroom and practical training they receive.

The topics covered during the evening include making arrests, the use of police radios and a classroom session on recognising terrorism and coersion. The cadets were thoroughly engaged throughout and were clearly gaining a real insight into the skills and knowledge required in modern policing.

My sincere thanks to the police officers who voluntarily give up their time to train and mentor these young people — their commitment is truly inspiring and makes such a difference.

I was also delighted that my personal High Sheriff’s Cadet, Sarah Matei gave a presentation to the rest of the group about her experiences in the role so far. It was wonderful to see her confidence and enthusiasm in sharing what the year has involved.

Thank you to Clive Skingsley and your team for hosting me so well.

#PoliceCadets #northamptonshire

It was a real honour to attend the Police Long Ser

It was a real honour to attend the Police Long Service Awards and celebrate the dedication, professionalism and commitment of the officers and staff who serve our communities every day.

Recognising those who have given so many years of service is a powerful reminder of the quiet sacrifices made in the line of duty. It was also important to acknowledge and thank the families of police officers and staff, whose support make that service possible.

Congratulations to everyone recognised, and in particular, those who received 20, 30 or 40 year service medals— and thank you for everything you do to keep our communities safe. 👏

This week, I’ve been focussing my attention on t

This week, I’ve been focussing my attention on the work of our fantastic Police Force. I’d like to say a huge thank you to PC868 Lovett and the whole team for taking the time to show me around the headquarters for North Northamptonshire Police (otherwise known as the NAB).

It was fascinating to see firsthand the arresting station and custody cells, and to learn more about the important work carried out by the specialist investigation units based there. The professionalism, dedication and teamwork across the building really stood out.

Thank you for the warm welcome and the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the work that goes on behind the scenes to keep our communities safe.

A heartfelt thank you to Gary Brown, Matt Baker an

A heartfelt thank you to Gary Brown, Matt Baker and the incredible team at Encompass for taking the time to show us around your rehabilitation services in Rushden.

Encompass is a superb charity undertaking truly life-changing work. We visited Recovery House where residents commit to six months of intensive therapeutic recovery work. This involves complete abstention, intense group therapy sessions and a programme of activities with partners in the community. It was a privilege to speak with the tenants who have bravely made the decision to begin their recovery journey — their honesty and determination were deeply inspiring.

After completing six months in Recovery House, residents are often supported into independent living accommodation often also run by the charity, helping them transition back into everyday life with continued guidance and structure. With several residential homes across the town, Encompass is providing not just accommodation, but a well developed journey of hope and stability for those seeking a real second chance. Proof of their success is that many members of staff are individuals with ‘lived experience’

Thank you for the compassion, dedication and belief you show every single day. You are clearly changing lives.

On Monday night, we had the privilege of attending

On Monday night, we had the privilege of attending a harrowing and incredibly powerful film premiere at the ODEON in Northampton.

The film followed two families who had suffered the unimaginable loss of a child to knife crime. Their stories were raw, honest and deeply moving — a stark reminder that knife crime doesn’t just take one life, it devastates entire families and leaves lasting scars across communities.

At the end of the evening, the Lord Lieutenant presented Jane Capps with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service for Off the Streets — a truly well-deserved recognition of the charity’s tireless work to tackle knife crime across Northamptonshire.

Off the Streets raises funds to install critical bleeding control kits and knife amnesty bins in strategic locations across the county, and delivers vital education in schools to help young people understand the real and devastating consequences of carrying a knife.

An emotional but important evening — honouring both the memories of precious lives lost and the extraordinary volunteers working to prevent further tragedy. 🕊️

It was an honour to attend Raj Mishra, the Mayor o

It was an honour to attend Raj Mishra, the Mayor of Wellingborough’s Civic Ceremony, last weekend. This year’s service was especially meaningful as it was held at the Hindu Mandir — marking the first time a Civic Ceremony has taken place in a Hindu setting. It was truly historic, colourful and heartwarming occasion that celebrated faith, community and unity.

A heartfelt thank you to all the wonderful ladies who prepared such a delicious and generous spread of Indian food for the reception afterwards. Your warmth and hospitality made the afternoon even more special.

We are grateful to have been part of such a memorable event. 🙏

On Wednesday, Fiona and I had the privilege of spe

On Wednesday, Fiona and I had the privilege of spending the day at Northampton Magistrates’ Court with Amy Crawfurd, Chair of the Magistrates’ Bench.

It was a truly fascinating and eye-opening experience. We were deeply impressed by the professionalism and dedication shown by everyone we met — not only the magistrates themselves, but also the listings clerks, court ushers, and the managers in the cells, who carry out their roles with remarkable compassion and care.

The day was also a sobering reminder of the challenges facing our justice system. It is deeply sad to see how many offenders are struggling with drug and alcohol addiction — a powerful reflection of the wider issues affecting our communities.

My sincere thanks to Amy and all the staff for their warm welcome and for the vital work they do each day in the service of justice.
There is currently a recruitment drive for new magistrates, and I would strongly encourage anyone interested in serving their community to explore the role further here: https://www.gov.uk/become-magistrate

…..and so the trainees become the trainers. Sup

…..and so the trainees become the trainers.

Super fun day at the East Midlands High Sheriff’s Conference where the High Sheriff’s of Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire and Rutland shared their learnings with future high sheriffs in nomination.

Thank you to our guest speakers and to Richard Cole for organising the event and to the Anglian Water Bird Watching Centre at Egleton, Rutland Water for hosting.

Thank you to Bishop Debbie Sellin for coming to bl

Thank you to Bishop Debbie Sellin for coming to bless the newly appointed Chapel Gym Chaplains at St. John’s Church in Corby, this morning. Twelve volunteers have recently completed their training for this role and will be available at various times to talk to those using the gym and help in whatever way they can.

The Chapel gym converted from a church and now has around 1500 members, many of whom are on bursaries, including those recently released from prison or those suffering with addiction.

The project also has a newly appointed cafe. Come along and try it out and experience the Gym’s strapline -

“Where Change Happens”.

On Friday evening, I attended a beautiful, but sad

On Friday evening, I attended a beautiful, but sad and deeply poignant church service at All Saints in Northampton, in memory of India Chipchase, whose life was taken 10 years ago in a tragic act of violence that shocked our community.
India’s story is one of unimaginable loss, and yet out of that pain came something powerful and life-affirming — Northampton Guardians, founded by her brave mother Sue Chipchase to ensure India’s legacy is one of hope, support and safety for others.
Over the past decade the charity has grown, with 20 dedicated volunteers now reaching out to those in need. Their work includes a safe space van funded by the OPFCC, bringing support and sanctuary into the town where people can find listening ears, warmth and help when they need it most.
We remember India this weekend with love, and we stand with all those who continue to suffer the consequences of gender-based violence.
The scale of this issue across the UK remains heartbreaking — estimates suggest that around 1 in 4 women have experienced sexual violence in their lifetime, and millions experience abuse, assault or stalking each year.

The service included a brave and eloquent speech by India’s brother Harry in memory of his sister, a reflective song from Billy Lockett, and an address by Gill Goodship of Northampton Guardians. Hymns were beautifully sung by the Church Junior Choir💔

Let us honour India’s memory by continuing to raise awareness, support survivors, and work tirelessly to prevent violence of any kind. 💛🕯️
#RememberIndia #NorthamptonGuardians #EndViolenceAgainstWomen

It was a profound honour to lay a wreath at the co

It was a profound honour to lay a wreath at the commemoration service for Katherine of Aragon, 490 years after she was laid to rest — a woman of extraordinary dignity, resilience, and quiet strength. 💐
Katherine’s life was marked by both privilege and profound hardship. Born a Spanish princess, she became Queen of England and later endured years of isolation, political manipulation, and personal loss. Despite being cast aside, separated from her daughter, and denied her rightful title, she never wavered in her faith, her sense of duty, or her belief in her own legitimacy. Her courage in the face of injustice continues to resonate centuries later.
The service was attended by the Spanish Ambassador, HE Mrs Emma Aparici Vazquez de Parga — the first woman to hold this role. Fittingly, she follows in the footsteps of Katherine herself, who was effectively the first woman ambassador to the Court of St James, representing Spain with intelligence and authority long before it was recognised or celebrated.
Adding to the poignancy of the day, the choir was made up of children from Kimbolton School, which stands on the site of Kimbolton Castle — the place where Katherine spent the final years of her life. Their voices felt like a bridge between past and present, honouring a woman whose story deserves to be remembered, told, and honoured. 🕊️

#KatherineOfAragon #HistoryRemembered #WomenInHistory #Kimbolton

It was a real honour to present Lucia Salunov with

It was a real honour to present Lucia Salunov with a Court Award, granted by His Honour Judge Mayo KC, in recognition of her invaluable role as a key witness in a trial that led to the apprehension and conviction of an individual for a serious assault.
Lucia showed immense courage and integrity by calling the police for many minutes during the assault and for continuing to support the justice process afterwards. Her actions played a vital role in ensuring accountability and demonstrate the importance of witnesses in helping the courts deliver justice.
This award recognises not only her contribution to the case, but also the strength and bravery it takes to stand up and do the right thing.
The courts have the power to make awards to those who have made an extraordinary contribution to administration of justice. Congratulations Lucia, on this well deserved award.

Thank you to Isebrook School in Kettering for incl

Thank you to Isebrook School in Kettering for including me in their their Multi-Agency Education Day. Isebrook is a wonderful school catering for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
It was great to see so many professionals working together to support and educate these young people, including the Police, Youth Offending Service, Office of the Fire and Police Commissioner’s Youth Service, NGAGE (substance misuse support for young people), and Magistrates.
Students took part in engaging and age-appropriate lessons that focused on educating them about the dangers of drugs, knife crime, the sending of sexual images via mobile phones, and other issues young people may face. These sessions provided honest, informative discussions, helping pupils understand risks, consequences, and how to make safer, more informed choices.
Days like this are so important in helping young people understand the support available to them and how different agencies work together to protect and guide them. Thank you to everyone involved for the time, care, and commitment shown to the students.
#IsebrookSchool #NGAGE #Northamptonshirepolice #northamptonshire

Today, I had the honour of attending a Holocaust M

Today, I had the honour of attending a Holocaust Memorial Service at the Guildhall in Northampton. The service, arranged by West Northamptonshire Council, was hosted by the Head Boy and Deputy Head Boy of Northampton Boys’ School. It featured a number of deeply moving speeches from various dignitaries and members of the Jewish Community.

We gathered to remember the Holocaust — the systematic, state-sponsored persecution and murder of around six million Jewish men, women and children by Nazi Germany and its collaborators — and to reflect on the devastating consequences of hatred, prejudice and dehumanisation. Remembering is vital not only to honour those who were lost, but to ensure that future generations recognise the warning signs and work actively to prevent such atrocities from ever happening again.

A particularly powerful moment came through music performed by NMPAT, including Nimrod from Elgar’s Enigma Variations and the Theme from Schindler’s List by John Williams.
The service concluded with a two-minute silence and the lighting of candles in remembrance of all those who died.

#HolocaustMemorial #WeRemember #NeverForget #WestNorthantsCouncil

On the way home from Hope UK today, I popped into

On the way home from Hope UK today, I popped into Sainsbury’s and bumped into our Community Police, who had a stand promoting safety in the home and giving out free home security products  Thank you to them for taking the time to engage with the community, offer practical advice, and help people feel safer in their own homes. These small interactions really do make a big difference.
Community Police play a vital role in our neighbourhoods. They focus on building trust, preventing crime, and supporting residents through visibility, education, and early intervention. Rather than only responding to incidents, they work proactively—getting to know local people, understanding local concerns, and helping to solve problems before they escalate.
They’re often the friendly faces you see at community events, schools, and local shops, bridging the gap between the police and the public. Today was a great reminder that policing isn’t just about enforcement—it’s about connection, care, and keeping our communities safe together
#CommunityPolice #neighbourhoodwatch

✨ What an inspiring afternoon at Hope UK in Kett

✨ What an inspiring afternoon at Hope UK in Kettering! 🧡 It was a real privilege to explore the exhibition of memorabilia and hear a presentation on the charity’s history — such a powerful reminder of how long-standing community work can change lives.
Founded originally as the Band of Hope back in 1847, this movement began in Leeds when Ann Jane Carlile and Rev. Jabez Tunnicliffe joined forces to support children in making healthy, positive choices in a time when alcohol was seen as a normal part of everyday life. The name came from a hopeful comment about the children being “the hope for the future,” and it quickly grew into a nationwide effort to help young people steer clear of the harms caused by drink and drugs.
By 1897, the Band of Hope was an enormous movement — at its peak boasting over 3.2 million members (children and adults) signed up to total abstinence pledges across the UK, with Queen Victoria as its Jubilee patron.
Today, Hope UK carries this legacy forward through extensive educational work in schools and colleges, delivering engaging programmes that help young people develop life skills, resilience, and the confidence to make informed, drug-free choices. Their sessions equip students with trusted knowledge about alcohol,vapes and other drugs, encouraging positive decisions at every stage.
So grateful for the work they do — and for the warm welcome at their Kettering base. Their legacy is living proof that hope, education and community spirit really do make a difference. 💛 #HopeUK #History #Kettering

On Monday, I had an unexpectedly uplifting day wit

On Monday, I had an unexpectedly uplifting day with the visit to HMP Grendon and HMP Springhill. The day had been kindly arranged by Pippa Kirkbride, the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire 2025–26, and The Revd Jonny Rapson, her Chaplain. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Governor Olivia Phelps, who leads both prisons, for her leadership, insight, and continued commitment to rehabilitation across both establishments.

HMP Grendon is a Category B prison that specialises in operating as a therapeutic community, offering intensive psychological treatment and a structured, peer-supported approach to personal development and behavioural change.

HMP Spring Hill is a Category D open prison that specialises in resettlement and reintegration, preparing individuals for release through education, work, training, and responsibility, and helping support successful transitions back into the community.

During the day we met many staff and prisoners. Both institutions had a rare positivity around them which is sadly not evident in many prisons. Men are clearly gaining a fresh confidence that they can contribute positively to society, learning to trust and most importantly, given positive hope for their futures. I came away really encouraged that lives can be turned around.

My heartfelt thanks to The Right Reverend Christop

My heartfelt thanks to The Right Reverend Christopher Dalliston for hosting a wonderful Epiphany celebration at his home in the Deanery at Peterborough Cathedral.
It was a super evening and a real pleasure to meet so many of the cathedral’s staff, volunteers and friends — a great reminder of the community and commitment that sit at the heart of cathedral life.
And for those who noticed… yes, Chris and Michelle still had their Christmas decorations up! Contrary to popular belief, Epiphany lasts until 2 February — a fact confidently asserted by Chris and helpfully backed up by the English Heritage website. Take a look if you don’t believe it! ✨🎄

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