Being back home in Sidmouth last week, I know how hard Storm Ciarán hit our part of Devon.

Whilst I’ve been directly supporting those needing extra help, a number of community groups, council teams, and local people have been doing an amazing job. We owe them all our deepest thanks.

I'd also like to offer thanks to the emergency services for attending a serious incident when an unattended car went into the sea off the Esplanade in Sidmouth. And thanks to East Devon District Council and a team of contractors for last minute emergency measures to reinforce the sea wall at Exmouth.

Several residents in Newton Poppleford, Northmostown, and Venn Ottery are still reeling from the flash flooding in May. One household I spoke with is only now back on its feet thanks to a brilliant 15-strong team from East Budleigh building firm S Cox & Co. I am in touch with Devon County Council and the Environment Agency to push for flood resilience improvements.

Sadly, the grounds at Tipton St John Primary School flooded. It’s imperative to find them a new home away from their current flood-prone site, as I’ve told Ministers.

On a different subject, I would like to touch on Seaton Community Hospital. I’ve met with Devon’s NHS and NHS Property Services and I will do everything possible to find a solution to save the wing.

I am aware of public meetings held recently in Colyford and Beer. Even though my constituents regularly use services at the hospital, it was made clear to me that I wouldn’t be welcome to attend either meeting. I am aware a question was asked at the meeting in Colyford about whether I could join the committee working together on a plan. Sadly, I’m told the response was very negative.

We all want to protect the hospital for future generations. Everyone should work together, irrespective of individual politics. I would like to take this opportunity to publicly offer my help to Tiverton & Honiton’s MP. Richard, let’s put politics to one side and work together for patients in both of our constituencies.