When I got elected and left teaching behind (perhaps only temporarily) I always said I wanted to get heavily involved in education and skills matters in Parliament. That I have done but I also want to support local students and young people. That's why I offer internships and work experience in the office for students and young people from in and around Brigg and Goole. Presently I have two students from the area on paid internships working with us at Westminster. They do this as part of their courses at Leeds and Hull Universities. I took the decision to pay them, as I always seek to, because they're having to live in London for a year as part of their university studies. I also have another student from the Barton area down doing some work experience for a short time in Westminster.

It's great to be able to support local young people in this way. Their support really helps me work more effectively but they also help to keep the office fresh! Here they are, Matt, Phoebe and Liam. They make me look old which is the down side!