Locally, we are challenged by the downturn in manufacturing, with Dyson going overseas, St Ivel in Wootton Bassett closing and Westinghouse moving out of Chippenham. Farming remains depressed and the threatened closure of RAF Lyneham would be a catastrophe unless we work to put high quality employment in its place.

We must do that while still preserving the rural and market town environment, whose way of life is the real reason we all choose to live.

For myself, I commit to continue to do what I can in every way to help people of all kinds and all political persuasions across the whole of North Wiltshire. I wish you all a very peaceful and prosperous 2004.