Libraries have quietly undergone huge changes since I used to visit my local library as a child to get my weekly fix of the adventures of Noggin the Nog.

Complaints about rails services are a regular feature of my inbox so I know many constituents will be pleased to learn about a new impartial and independent Ombudsman for the railway which will enhance the industry’s complaints process, and help rail customers.

It’s been a mild November to date with little more than a couple of torrential downpours and a shortening of the days to remind us winter is on its way.

The Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Roger Hirst, is responsible for setting a budget for Essex Police that enables the Chief Constable to deliver the best possible policing service that the public of Essex deserve.

It is a sad fact that bullying is a significant issue for children and young people – not only face to face but, perhaps more frequently these days, online.

There is something very special about a town where people take the time to look after those most in need, especially its children.

Last month the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond, a former Shenfield High School pupil, gave his third Budget. Fiscal Phil – who I understand was a patron of Ye Olde Green Dragon in former days – has developed a reputation for calculated thrift and studied caution.

Great news from the Care Quality Commission, which has rated Home Instead Senior Care in Brentwood to be Outstanding following a recent inspection. Home Instead is an agency providing personal care to older adults living in their own homes.

I find myself on Brentwood High Street several times a week for shopping trips and meetings for work and would say I am reasonably familiar with its layout.

The Havering and Brentwood Bereavement Service, based in Brentwood, offers an outstanding service to the community, offering support and counselling to children and adults who have been recently bereaved or who ahve undergone traumatic times.