LEADER COLUMN

I have written to Wrexham County Borough Council regarding the increased number of flags placed around central Wrexham in recent weeks. While I am always pleased to see individuals or institutions proudly displaying our national flags, I consider the large numbers placed on public property such as lampposts and roundabouts to be detrimental to the City’s appearance. This is disrespectful to the true meaning of the flag, especially given they are flown at half-mast.

I further believe they represent an attempt to sow division in our community. Many residents from all backgrounds have spoken to me of feeling scared and intimidated and do not feel safe in the city centre due to the feelings evoked by the flags and other activities. These are families who were born in Wrexham and have lived here for the majority of their lives.

At a time when Wrexham is applying for City of Culture 2029 and is benefitting from considerable outside interest, we must consider the message that the appearance of hundreds of poorly maintained flags sends to those visiting Wrexham and those considering investing here.

As I have said before, and I will emphasise again, this is not the Wrexham that I know. Wrexham is a welcoming place, and immigration is part of our city. Actions and language matters and the politics of division and grievance that populism and nationalism feeds gets us nowhere. We are stronger when we work together, communicate and listen to each other. As our city enters another exciting phase in its growth, I firmly believe in remembering the welcome part of “Welcome to Wrexham”.

It was great to see the return of ‘Singing Streets’ to the city centre bringing a huge sense of community, celebration and positivity. A big thank you to everyone involved in bringing this back to Wrexham and particularly all the choirs who gave some incredible performances.

The Senedd elections are on Thursday. You will find your polling station on your polling card or can check with electoral services at Wrexham County Borough Council. Voters in Wales do not need to show photo ID to vote at a polling station at Senedd elections or local council elections.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

The UK Government’s ‘Growing up in the Online World’ consultation is still open and as part of this, I am continuing my engagement with young people to gather their views and as part of this, I spoke to the school council at Ysgol Bryn Alyn. I will be adding their comments to those from my survey and visits to Ysgol Clywedog and Ysgol Rhosnesni High School. The Government is not just consulting on a social media ban, there are different aspects covered and I know how much of a concern it is for parents, young people and many others.  I have received emails from several constituents on this issue and if you would like to contribute to the consultation, you can access it here: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/growing-up-in-the-online-world-a-national-consultation

There were welcome announcements from the UK Government on energy last week with the news that bonuses for energy company bosses will be curbed if they are not acting in the best interests of consumers. There will also be an increased tax for energy companies who are making large windfall profits from price shocks like the one we are seeing at the moment. The Government’s focus is on energy security and lower bills which should be achieved by greater use of renewable energy like wind, solar and nuclear to protect us from fossil fuel price shocks. We’re banning bonuses for energy bosses if they treat you unfairly, incentivising them to act in your best interest. It’s important that we break the link between gas and electricity prices and that process has begun.

I am grateful to everyone who took time to come along to my ‘Coffee with Andrew’ event in Gwersyllt last week. It was great to meet residents and to have a chat about so many different things. My constituency surgery in Marford is now open for booking so please get in contact with my office if you would like to make an appointment.

It was also a busy weekend in Wrexham with the RAF show on Queen’s Square and Xplore opening its fantastic planetarium. Looking ahead to this weekend we also have return of Singing Streets bringing music across the city centre as well as Wrexham AFC’s final home match of the season against Middlesbrough. Whatever happens, it has been an amazing performance by the team and the coaching staff.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Breakfast clubs across Wrexham play an important role in our schools providing vital nutritional, peer and social support for pupils. I was therefore delighted to present Black Lane Primary School with their award at Kellogg’s last week for Kellogg’s Breakfast Club Award Winner for Wales. Congratulations again to the staff and pupils for this fantastic achievement and keep an eye on social media and press for details of how to nominate a breakfast club at your school for this year’s awards.

I also held my latest meeting with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Wrexham County Borough Council, Llais and Wrexham AFC regarding the ongoing parking issues at Wrexham Maelor hospital. I will be able to share more details of this very soon.

Wrexham County Borough Council’s information session at Acton Community Resource Centre last week was well attended by those concerned about the council’s plans to relocate the Cunliffe Centre to the site and close the Resource Centre to the public. I have written to the Council and fully support the cross-party group of ward councillors who are asking for a pause to the closure and proper consultation with residents. Councillor Corin Jarvis’ petition is still live and you can sign it here https://www.change.org/p/save-acton-community-resource-centre-pause-closure-let-the-community-decide

Last week it was confirmed that the UK will be re-joining Erasmus + in 2027. This means that students, apprentices and young people will soon be able to study and work across Europe. Over 100,000 people are expected to benefit in the first year alone, including apprentices on placements in leading European companies, school groups taking part in cultural exchanges, and organisations collaborating on new cross-border initiatives. I really welcome this news for young people across Wrexham.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

This month has seen the Employment Rights Act come into force, meaning for millions of workers, they now have protections like day one rights to paternity leave and unpaid parental leave, so it no longer matters how long you have been in a job before taking parental leave. The strengthening of statutory sick pay means that the fear of a loss of income due to illness is now a thing of the past. The new Fair Work Agency will work to enforce workers rights and those who blow the whistle on issues such as sexual harassment will also be better protected. These rights and many others are ones that I have campaigned on both before and since being elected and I am delighted to see them made a reality.

The state pension has also increased by 4.8%, which will benefit over 12 million people. The UK Government continues to maintain the triple lock to protect pensions. The minimum and living wages have both risen and families are now able to claim Universal Credit for all children regardless of family size which will lift thousands of children out of poverty. These are measures that I have consistently voted in favour of. There is more to do to tackle the cost of living, but the UK Government is committed to doing just that.

Thank you to those who continue to contact me regarding Acton Community Resource Centre. I have written to Wrexham County Borough Council to share the concerns expressed to me. The Council’s public drop-in session is this Wednesday 15th April 3pm-6pm at Acton Community Resource Centre. Residents can ask questions about the proposals, but this is not a consultation.

The deadline for registering to vote for the Senedd elections is 11:59pm on 20th April https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. The deadline for applying for a postal vote is 21st April 2026 and you can apply for one here https://www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

With the announcement of the approval of Wrexham University’s ambitious plans for a Wrexham Business Gateway and graduation ceremonies last week, it was fitting to be able to open GradCon at Tŷ Pawb and meet graduates and employers. There were a huge number of options available for those visiting and it was great to be able to share what an exciting time this is in Wrexham and North Wales for careers across so many different sectors from advanced manufacturing to creative industries, nuclear energy to artificial intelligence.

Baby Basics is a charity working across Wrexham which provides the essentials to mothers and families who are unable to provide these items for themselves. It was fantastic to meet the volunteer team based at Caia Park Partnership to hear first hand the impact that they are having. I was also struck by the generosity of the community in supporting the charity with donations. Baby Basics has a brilliant network and partnerships with schools, churches, community groups and businesses. For more information, check out the Baby Basics website or the Wrexham Baby Basics Facebook page.

I would like to thank those Acton and Maesydre residents who have been in touch about the Council’s plans for Acton Community Resource Centre. I am working with ward Councillor Corin Jarvis and residents to first explore why a proper public consultation was not carried out. The Cunliffe Centre certainly requires more modern facilities in order to support its service users and expand its services. Nevertheless, the community of Acton also needs a community centre. I hope that a solution can be found which benefits both.

Constituents who rely on heating oil or LPG have been contacting me about the huge price rises they are facing due to the military action being taken in the Gulf by USA, Israel and Iran. Welsh Government has announced that the £3.8 million from the UK Government to mitigate this will be used for a one-off £200 payment that will be available to households on the Council Tax Reduction Scheme who use heating oil or LPG. Wrexham County Borough Council will contact eligible households directly with details on how to apply. In addition, the Discretionary Assistance Fund has also been strengthened meaning support for off-grid fuel has increased up to £750, and importantly, households can now apply twice within a 12-month period – recognising that many may need further help as high energy costs continue. If you’re unsure what support you may be entitled to, Advicelink Cymru offers free, confidential advice on 0800 702 2020.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Some big announcements for Wrexham last week with the news that Wrexham City Board’s plan for the £20 million of UK Government funding has been approved by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. The focus now moves to delivery and I will continue to work with the City Board as this plan becomes a reality.

Since my election I have been working to ensure that young people have access to the opportunities they need, especially in terms of connectivity, skills and employment. Therefore, I am so pleased that Wrexham has been announced as one of the areas to benefit from a new UK Government funded Youth Hub to support employment opportunities for 16-24 year olds. I know from having met with young people, businesses and education providers that this is something that is really needed here. We are one of 12 places in Wales to get one of these hubs. The task now begins to identify a suitable premises for the hub and the Government will be working with Wrexham County Borough Council on this. The new hub will bring together Job Centre Plus, the local authority, employers and training providers in one place. It’s a fantastic opportunity for Wrexham and one I’m sure we will all get behind.

I’m delighted that a Memorandum of Understanding has been announced by the Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander and Welsh Government which will enable Transport for Wales and Network Rail to prepare for future partnering arrangements between Transport for Wales and Great British Rail. This is a vitally important step in how rail will operate in Wales in the future. There are important and necessary developments planned around upgrades, new stations and signalling to remedy years of under investment in railways here. It’s also further evidence of the partnership working between UK and Welsh Government which is so important for us here in Wales. You can read more about it here: https://www.andrewforlabourwrexham.org.uk/memorandum-of-understanding-vital-step-for-welsh-rail/

My next ‘Coffee with Andrew’ event will be in Bradley and Gwersyllt on Friday 24th April. You can register here: https://www.andrewforlabourwrexham.org.uk/coffee-morning-sign-up-24-04-2029/ or contact my office using the details below.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

The £1.5 million Pride in Place Impact Funding that I secured for Wrexham last year is to be distributed evenly by Wrexham County Borough Council to Community Councils across Wrexham. I know from speaking to a number of community councils that there are some exciting projects planned for the funding. Some of them are also consulting with residents and have surveys for residents to be able to submit ideas. I also forwarded the ideas you sent me in my survey at the end of last year. If you are interested in the plans that your community council has, you can contact them via their website and there are also contact details via the Wrexham County Borough Council website here: https://moderngov.wrexham.gov.uk/mgParishCouncilDetails.aspx?ls=12&SLS=5&bcr=1

Wrexham has made the long list in its bid for City of Culture 2029. There are 8 other cities across the UK vying for the title: Blackpool, Inverness-Highland, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Portsmouth, Sheffield and Swindon. Wrexham will now receive £60,000 to develop a full application and I know from having met the team on several occasions that there are some fantastic projects planned and already in motion. This is such a brilliant opportunity for Wrexham and for us all to come together and show the vibrancy, diversity and inclusivity of our community. I’m sure that we will embrace it.

With the Senedd elections in May, there is still plenty of time to register to vote, https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. The deadline for registering is 11:59pm on 20th April 2026 and the elections are on 7th May. In Wales, you can be aged 14 or over to register (you can register 2 years before you reach voting age). It is also important to mention that the Senedd constituencies have changed, and we are part of the Fflint-Wrecsam constituency. The electoral system has also changed so that you are voting for a party rather than an individual candidate as was the case in the past. There are 96 MSs that will be elected. Once you have registered to vote you can opt for a postal ballot or visit the polling station on the day.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

We all continue to be deeply concerned about the situation in the Middle East. My thoughts are with all those affected including those Britons living there and those serving in our armed forces in the region.

The war between Iran and Israel and the USA continues to affect us here in terms of fuel prices. Several of you have been in touch about heating oil prices. On Tuesday, a group of rural Labour MPs and I met with the Financial Secretary to the Treasury where I shared your experiences. He was keen to hear constituents’ views and experiences about what is happening, to go alongside information he is receiving from officials and industry. The Government have said they will not tolerate profit gouging and will task the Competitions and Markets Authority to investigate suppliers that do.   

I’m supporting the Communication Workers Union campaign as part of ongoing efforts to address the unacceptable situation at Royal Mail. I have written to the Interim Chief Executive at Royal Mail as well as Ofcom to outline my concerns about employment practices, proposed changes to the Universal Service Obligation and the lack of regulation in the parcels sector. Royal Mail executives, representatives from Ofcom and the postal unions will be appearing in front of the Department for Business and Trade Select Committee on 24th March. I have shared examples from Wrexham with the committee. These include the impact of delays where postal deliveries are irregular and the “bundling” of items. It does appear that parcels are being prioritised over letters and staff shortages are compounding the issue. Unfortunately, this is a situation that is not isolated to Wrexham and is another example of a private company not providing acceptable levels or services to its customers or terms and conditions to its workforce.

A big thank you to Bronington residents who attended my surgery there and I am actioning the issues raised with me. This has included an objection to the planning application for Veolia’s IVC facility at Fenn’s Bank. We await the decision from Wrexham County Borough Council regarding this.

I also attended an event at the Maesgwyn where we were updated about the plans for the Wrexham Gateway project which will transform that part of Wrexham. We also heard from Ken Skates MS about the transport improvements being made in North Wales. Lesley Griffiths MS gave a speech reflecting on her 19 years representing Wrexham in the Senedd, with much of that time, also spent in ministerial roles in Welsh Government. Lesley is a dedicated public servant who has worked tirelessly for Wrexham and we wish her all the very best for a well deserved and happy retirement. 

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

I know that many of you will extremely concerned about the developing situation in the Middle East. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is encouraging everyone in the region to register their presence to receive support, updates, warnings and for insurance purposes. You can do this on their website and there are different links depending on which area you are in. Please contact my office using the details below if I can be of any assistance.

Connectivity and improving public transport to open up opportunity for education, work and tourism is a key area of work for me as your MP. Since being elected, I have been part of a group of MPs campaigning for improved links from Wrexham to London and the West Midlands. The Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands Railway’s revised bid would provide this by increasing the number of direct trains. I was so pleased that Wrexham County Borough Council, stakeholders from Wrexham and other parts of the proposed route could join me and other MPs on board the train to take our case directly to Downing Street. We now await the decision from the Office for Rail and Road in the coming months.

I was delighted to be able to speak in a Westminster Hall debate this week about the importance and impact of the small charities sector. We have some wonderful examples here in Wrexham and I highlighted to work of We Mind the Gap in providing opportunities for young people through their different schemes and the incredible value of partnership working.

The UK Government has launched a consultation “Growing up in the online world” which looks at 5 key areas: understanding how children use technology; interventions for safer, more positive experiences; effective compliance and enforcement of online safety rules; preparing children for a digital future and enriching their online experiences; and supporting families. This is a public consultation and you can complete it online via this link Growing up in the online world: a national consultation or via email to [email protected]. The consultation will close on 26th of May 2026.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

At the end of last week, I convened a meeting to progress solutions to the hospital parking issue at Wrexham Maelor. I am grateful to Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Wrexham County Borough Council, Wrexham AFC and Llais for their engagement and the actions will be taken forward, particularly around the possibility of parking enforcement which I know from speaking to people in Wrexham, is a popular option.

Wrexham Foodbank do incredible work across Wrexham to tackle poverty. On Saturday I was honoured to be invited to their event to hear about all their work and celebrate the huge contribution made by their dedicated team of volunteers. Look out for their videos which demonstrate the breadth of their operations and impact in our community.

The annual St David’s Day debate in Westminster was a wonderful opportunity to talk about Wrexham, including how we celebrate our patron saint along with how the story of St David resonates today in terms of “doing the little things”. It was also chance to highlight the strength of community in our city and the welcome that it gives.

St David’s Day weekend in Wrexham was colourful, vibrant and a brilliant representation . There were markets across both Saturday and Sunday as well as the annual parade, led as always by the Cambria Band. A brilliant event and a big thank you to everyone involved in organising the many different aspects of it.  

I was so pleased to welcome Marcus Fair for a tour of Westminster last week following the award of his MBE for “Services to Addiction Recovery, to Ex-offenders and Tackling Homelessness”. This is an incredible achievement, richly deserved and I know that he sees this as an MBE for Recovery and for the team and support he has behind him both personally and at Eternal Media. Congratulations again Marcus.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

The Prime Minister was in Wales last week to announce the UK Government’s £14 billion commitment to funding Welsh rail for the long term. This includes funding already committed for new stations including one at Deeside Industrial Park and upgrades to the Wrexham-Liverpool line including the sidings at Padeswood. This also includes the North Wales metro and electrification of the North Wales mainline to Holyhead and Llandudno as well as improvements at Chester.  

As a member of the Welsh Affairs Committee, I was able to ask Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens MP about the further devolution of powers to Wales. She revealed at the Welsh Affairs Committee that the UK Government would be devolving more tax powers to Wales. Since 2018, Welsh Government has wanted to levy a Vacant Land Tax but previous governments in Westminster would not grant them these powers. This will now change, enabling land that has been vacant and wasted to be used to benefit communities and drive economic growth. This also shows the importance of the 2 governments in Westminster and Cardiff working in partnership for the benefit of Wales.

Having written to Mark Drakeford Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Welsh Language about support for hospitality businesses in Wrexham, I was pleased to see Welsh Government have announced that an additional £8m will be provided to enable a further year of non-domestic rates relief for food and drink hospitality properties, including pubs, restaurants and live music venues. This is using the extra consequential funding from the UK Government’s relief for pubs and music venues in England, together with the Welsh Government’s own funds, to extend the range of businesses supported in Wales.

My private members bill on Licensing Hours Extensions has now received assent and become law. I hope this will be of real benefit to hospitality businesses especially in the summer during the World Cup.

The plans for St David’s Day celebrations in Wrexham this year look fantastic with the parade and plenty of activities centred around Queen’s Square with markets, dance and music on both Saturday 28th and Sunday 1st March. It’s always an event that shows the best of Wrexham and I will also be marking it in Parliament at the St David’s Day debate.  

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Last week was National Apprenticeship Week and Welsh Government announced that Wales has reached a milestone of 100,000 apprenticeships in the last 4 years. This has helped businesses to recruit, train and retain staff in sectors like energy, construction and the creative industries. I was delighted to meet Rob Jones an apprentice from Wrexham who is working at Airbus in Broughton. We discussed the value of apprenticeships and the quality of what is on offer from employers like Airbus who have such successful schemes operating for the benefit of young people in our area.

In Westminster last week, I was able to ask Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens MP about the further devolution of powers to Wales. She revealed at the Welsh Affairs Committee that the UK Government would be devolving more tax powers to Wales. Since 2018, Welsh Government has wanted to levy a Vacant Land Tax but previous governments in Westminster would not grant them these powers. This will now change, enabling land that has been vacant and wasted to be used to benefit communities and drive economic growth. This also shows the importance of the 2 governments in Westminster and Cardiff working in partnership for the benefit of Wales.

I’ve had some brilliant engagement and responses from pupils in high schools across Wrexham about social media and under 16s. It is important for me to hear their views to help inform discussions in Westminster about what measures could look like.

Having written to Mark Drakeford Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Welsh Language about support for hospitality businesses in Wrexham, I was pleased to see Welsh Government have announced that an additional £8m will be provided to enable a further year of non-domestic rates relief for food and drink hospitality properties, including pubs, restaurants and live music venues. This is using the extra consequential funding from the UK Government’s relief for pubs and music venues in England, together with the Welsh Government’s own funds, to extend the range of businesses supported in Wales.

My surgery in Bronington is available for booking, if you would like to make an appointment, please contact my office using the details below.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

The City of Culture expression of interest for 2029 has been submitted. Lots of work has already started: one aspect, the wonderful public art trail, continues to grow and last week we saw the addition of Simon O’Rourke’s Wrecsam installation crafted from a single fallen oak tree on Queen’s Square, with an emphasis on place, history and community which at the moment, are more important than ever. It’s a real focal point in the city centre to support tourism and promotion. 

Creative industries is a growth area in Wrexham and I was delighted to meet with the team from Rocking Horse Media to understand more about their Henry House project. The pilot for this was filmed here in Wrexham and the team have plans for a full series which they would also like to be filmed in the area. It was great to hear how the project, set in a care home, is about the SEND community but also created and made by them. I’m looking forward to seeing how the project develops.

The £1.5 million Pride in Place Impact funding which I secured for Wrexham will be distributed by Wrexham County Borough Council to community councils across the county borough. A big thank you to those of you who completed my survey about how the money should be spent, and your responses have been sent to the community councils to help inform their decisions. You can see a summary of what has been sent on my website: https://www.andrewforlabourwrexham.org.uk/pride-in-place-impact-funding/ Many respondents to the survey talked about public spaces such as parks but also community projects and opportunities for young people.  I know that some community councils already have firm ideas for where the funding will go and I look forward to seeing those projects come to fruition.

Unreliable postal services have been an issue for some in different parts of Wrexham and I am grateful to people for bringing it to my attention. I know this has caused significant impact, particularly in terms of NHS letters containing important appointment information for example. I have raised the issue with the Minister responsible for postal services,  Blair McDougall who has met with Royal Mail and been assured that the situation will improve. I would urge anyone who continues to experience issues to contact my office using the details below.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

This week has seen the UK Government announce that ground rents will be capped at £250 a year in England and Wales, something which will make a real difference to leaseholders. The Government will also ban new leasehold flats, meaning the end of this outdated model.  Alongside the cap on ground rents, the Government has published the draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill, which will strengthen the rights and protections of more than five million leaseholders. The “Moving to Commonhold” consultation has also opened, giving people the chance to shape the next phase of reform. I know that management fees and service charges remain an issue. Having spoken to leaseholders in different parts of Wrexham during the election campaign in 2024 and since, I know that reforms are desperately needed, and the Government is acting on this.

Vet’s bills are, I know, a concern for many of you here in Wrexham. The veterinary sector has not been reformed for nearly 60 years and therefore change is overdue. The reforms will help households understand what they are paying for, avoid unexpected costs and choose the best value care for their pets. The proposals follow the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) finding that fees have risen at almost twice the rate of inflation, with owners not being given enough information to make an informed decision.

The Welsh Government’s budget passed in the Senedd last week, with £112.8m additional funding for local government. Overall, this is a 4.5% increase to the local government settlement. All 22 Welsh councils will receive increases of 4% or above, with individual increases ranging from 4% to 6.5%. This funding of course supports schools, social care, and everyday council services. There will also be £180m of additional funding for the health and social care.  

This week the UK Government announced support for pubs and live music venues in England in terms of business rates. The Welsh Government have said they will explore additional support here in Wales once the detail of the support in England has been released. Now that has happened, I will be writing to Mark Drakeford to understand what this will look like in Wales.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

I wanted to provide an update on the planning application for Oak Alyn Hall in Sydallt from a care home to a House of Multiple Occupancy. I have been clear from the start that this site is not appropriate for an HMO and have formally submitted an objection using Wrexham County Borough Council’s planning portal. I would urge local residents to do the same. A planning objection must focus on “material considerations” such as increased traffic, lack of amenities and services, waste management and changes to environment otherwise it risks not being considered. This is part of planning law in Wales and indeed across the rest of the UK. An MP has no influence over the planning process but I have submitted an objection letter as an individual as I know many others have done.

Thank you to all those who have been in touch with my office regarding the planning application. I have met with a group of residents who are coordinating a petition and responses to the planning application themselves.

I have also written to the Home Secretary to seek clarification on the consultation process, impact assessment and the management and monitoring of asylum accommodation, particularly in terms of a provider like Clearsprings where significant concerns have been expressed to the Home Office about their processes and approach. As soon as I have a response to this, I will share the details.

Whilst there is an identified need by Wrexham County Borough Council as well as Welsh Government for smaller units of accommodation in the County Borough, the location and suitability of locations must be at the forefront of any considerations. A small community like Sydallt is not that location for reasons of connectivity, capacity and social cohesion.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

This week I was delighted to be able to share the fantastic work of Xplore Science and Discovery Centre right here in Wrexham, thanks to a Westminster Hall debate by my colleague Steve Witherden MP. Our Science Centres are incredible resources whose reach goes far beyond the areas in which they are situated. They work with our young people but also businesses and universities to widen access to STEM.

I have been contacted by a number of constituents regarding the proposed change of use at Plas yn Rhos in Rhosllanerchrugog. To my knowledge, this is now the third time in recent years that Clearsprings has brought forward a proposal for this site. On the previous two occasions, the proposal was formally objected to by Wrexham County Borough Council. While Plas yn Rhos is located just outside my Wrexham constituency, I recognise that its potential impact, particularly on our local GP surgeries, schools, and infrastructure, will be felt deeply by my constituents. I am working closely with Steve Witherden MP, WCBC, and the local community to ensure our voices are heard.

Constituents often get in touch about planning applications. For example, the former care home Oak Alyn Hall in Sydallt has also been subject to a planning proposal for a change in use to a House of Multiple Occupancy. I will be meeting with local representatives later this week and I am also in dialogue with the councillor for Gwersyllt North.

For over a year I’ve been involved with the steering group for the 1876-2026 Wrexham’s Year of Wonder. 1876 was a significant year for our then town with the establishment of the Football Association of Wales, the opening of the Ruabon Road cemetery and the tramway. Wrexham hosted an Arts and Industries Exhibition which showcased industries such as bricks and brewing, mining, leather and steel. It also included the display of over 1000 paintings, including works by Turner, Reynolds and Canaletto, as well as many antiquities. The launch event at Wrexham Library last week brought to life some of the milestones of that year as well as an indication of what we will see over the course of 2026. A big thank you to all those involved in this, and I look forward to attending as many events as I can.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

I joined Ken Skates MS and Welsh Labour candidates at Wrexham Bus Station last week for Welsh Labour’s transport announcement that if they lead the next Government in Wales, they will introduce a £2 cap on all single bus fares across Wales.

The fare cap would be introduced Wales-wide in April 2027 and cover everyone aged 22 to 59. Under 21s already enjoy a £1 cap on single fares, and over 60s get free bus travel across Wales thanks to the Welsh Labour Government’s choices to ensure affordable public transport is available. If re-elected, Welsh Labour would also introduce 100 new bus routes across the country. These routes would prioritise connecting people to jobs and key services, such as hospitals and train stations, but the public will also be asked to suggest where the services should run. The changes would be rolled out between 2027 and 2030, with new routes in every part of Wales. 

These pledges are possible because of the Bus Services Bill, which will bring buses across Wales back into public ownership, allowing people to have a greater say in the services they receive. In Westminster, the Railways Bill will also bring services back into public ownership, so that they are run of the interest of those using public transport and not private companies.

It has been great to see the support for the revised Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands Railway (WSMR) planned service from Wrexham to London via Shrewsbury. I have been actively leading on this together with other MP colleagues since last year. The campaign continues with WSMR’s revised bid also supported by local businesses, institutions and Wrexham County Borough Council who have also been supporting the proposal from the start. Working collaboratively, we hope to persuade the Office for Rail and Road (ORR) of the need for this service to better connect Wrexham with other parts of the UK.

I wrote to the ORR in December to seek clarification over changes to Avanti services affecting the region as well as the WSMR bid. I received the response from the CEO of the ORR as we were going to press and I will take the time to digest the detail of their lengthy reply and consider what actions to take next, working with colleagues and other stakeholders. Public transport is about opportunity in terms of access to jobs, education, services and more - I will continue working to ensure Wrexham has the best access to it.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

As 2025 draws to a close it is a chance to reflect on the year. In recent weeks we have seen the ending of the 2-child benefit cap as well as the landmark Employment Rights legislation.

I was delighted that the Environment Secretary has announced that the level of the Agricultural and Business Property Reliefs threshold will be increased from £1m to £2.5m. I have been working with local farmers to further their concerns to Ministers alongside my colleagues.

We have campaigned with NFU Cymru and local farmers to engage constructively with the Government and I am extremely glad that concerns have been heard and acted upon. I will be examining the detail of this new proposal and will continue to engage with Ministers, colleagues and constituents over the coming weeks.

The UK Government has given £1.5 million of additional Pride in Place funding for Wrexham County Borough. The recent survey I undertook revealed so many different suggestions for where and how this money could be spent in our community. Wrexham County Borough Council will be responsible for allocating the money to particular projects and I have shared the results of my survey with them. The UK Government has stipulated that MPs must be involved in discussions about the funding and I look forward to continuing to work with Wrexham County Borough Council on this in the New Year.

The ideas from the participants of the Voice of Wrexham hospital parking event were shared with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board at the end of November. Once a response to the different options raised is given by the Health Board, I will share this. I have offered to meet with the Health Board and other interested parties including Welsh Government, Wrexham AFC and Wrexham County Borough Council to move this issue on.

Recently my office opened the 10,000th case since my election last July. The cases are varied and often complex. This year alone, we have resolved over 5,500 cases. People get in contact about include housing, health and issues to do with the Home Office and Department for Work and Pensions. We have also had a significant amount of communication from constituents concerned about the situation in Gaza, the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill and the changes to Personal Independence Payments.

When it arrives, I wish you a Happy New Year Blwyddyn Newydd Dda.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

The final week of Parliament before the Christmas recess saw the landmark Employment Rights Bill pass its last hurdle before Royal Assent and becoming law. These protections bring rights for workers into the 21st Century addressing areas like parental leave, sick pay from day 1, a reform of zero hours contracts and the banning of fire and rehire.

The announcement that the Erasmus Scheme will now be open to young people across the UK is hugely welcome. As a result of Brexit, Boris Johnson negotiated the Turing scheme which had an average of 35,000 placements per year, whereas Erasmus will have over 100,000 placements. The UK has a 30% discount, the best of any third country, and this has been achieved through negotiation and refusal to accept a bad deal. The UK Government is committed to pursuing closer cooperation with Europe where it is in our national interest.

I joined the Transport Select Committee last week for an oral evidence session on the Railways Bill. It was important to understand how this Bill will work in Wales given that rail is not devolved but Transport for Wales is run by Welsh Government. The establishment of a Wales and Borders business unit within Great British Railways will be key. The Memorandum of Understanding between UK Government and Welsh Government will also be crucial. In the New Year I will join the Bill committee for the Railways Bill as it moves to its next stage in Parliament, continuing to be a voice for Wales and Wrexham in this legislative process.

Connectivity is vital to growing opportunity for our communities and is something I campaigned on last year. I am pleased that earlier this month, Transport for Wales doubled the frequency of train services between Wrexham and Chester. This will increase the number of trains operating through the day by 100% - made possible through UK and Welsh Governments working in partnership to invest in the line and trains. This partnership working between the two governments continues to benefit Wrexham and will develop in 2026.

In hospitality, retail, postal services, social care, health care and our emergency services the lengthy hours away from family to look after everyone else, do not go unnoticed. Thank you to everyone for what you do over the festive period to support others.

I wish you and your family a warm Nadolig Llawen/Merry Christmas. My office will remain monitored over the festive season so please reach out at [email protected] if you require any assistance. 

This week saw the second reading of the Railways Bill in Parliament and an opportunity for me to speak about the benefits that bringing track and train back together under public ownership will bring. Of course, here in Wales this is already the case, but the same occurring in England will mean simplified systems and journeys for many of us who cross the border every day for work or leisure. The railways will be run for the benefit of passengers and not profit.

I also learned last week that the Office for Rail and Road (an organisation which is independent of the Government) has recommended the withdrawal of the 19:32 service from Chester and the crucial Sunday services.

The loss of this vital direct link with London Euston represents a significant erosion of connectivity for the entire region including Wrexham. I have therefore written to the Chief Executive to express my concerns and asking for an explanation of the rationale behind the decision. The full letter can be viewed on my website.

The Welsh Labour Government announced this week that they had reached a budget agreement with Plaid Cymru. This is welcome news for Wales as it will protect frontline public services and jobs.

I am particularly pleased to see the additional funding for local government in 2026-27 – an extra £112.8m, following an extra £505million allocated to Wales by the Chancellor in the Autum Budget.

This means that all councils, including Wrexham will receive increases above 4%. There is also additional funding for the health and social care budget – an extra £180m, which, taken with the funding in the Draft Budget, is equivalent to a 3.6% increase in 2026-27.

I am also stepping up my social mobility campaign to get social class included in the Equality Act. Research by the Sutton Trust and the 93% Club has found for example that 66% of working-class professionals report being mocked because of their background at work. Furthermore, working class professionals are paid 12% less for the same roles than their more privileged peers. This needs to change, we need to stop putting barriers in front of people who want to study or work.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Saturday was Small Business Saturday. There are around 5.45 million small businesses across the UK, and this encourages us all to show our support, particularly by spending and shopping with them. Small businesses employ 16.7 million people in the UK which is 60% of our workforce. They add £2.4 trillion to our economy. We have some fantastic small businesses across Wrexham some of whom I visited on Saturday at the Wrexham Makers Market in Tŷ Pawb as well as Wrexham Street Market.

Last week the Welsh Government also announced an additional £116 million of support as business rates in Wales will be updated to reflect current property values. The standard multiplier will be reduced in 2026-27, to 0.502. This will be the first reduction of the multiplier in Wales since 2010 and is certainly welcome. I will be seeking clarity from Welsh Government about what support will be put in place for pubs, restaurants, hotels, gyms and other leisure and hospitality businesses in Wales. These businesses are vital to areas like Wrexham.

The Welsh Government hosted its most significant economic summit in over a decade at the ICCW (International Convention Centre Wales) in Newport last week. The Summit aimed to showcase Wales’ strengths as a competitive destination for investment. More than 300 senior business leaders attended, representing around 30 countries and more than 170 companies engaging with Wales were doing so for the first time. The Summit highlighted sectors where Wales has strong global potential: advanced manufacturing, clean energy, compound semiconductors, creative industries, life sciences, and technology. On the day of the summit, On the day, £1.4bn of additional investment was announced and since the Summit was launched last summer, investment linked to it now totals £16bn. These investments are expected to support the creation of more than 10,000 jobs over the coming years. An example of the investments announced is Eni whose carbon-capture project at Point of Ayr, is supporting 1,000+ jobs with supply chain impact here in Wrexham.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Wednesday’s Budget saw the lifting of the two-child benefit cap for those on Universal Credit which will help an estimated 2,370 children in Wrexham, a welcome and necessary announcement to support the reduction in child poverty.

The abolition of the two-child benefit cap on Universal Credit will, in part be paid for by a rise in tax on high-harm, online casino products. Importantly for Wrexham with Bangor on Dee Racecourse a key venue in our area, horse racing is exempt from the rise. Bingo duty has also been completely removed. This provides much needed support for those businesses and venues where people go to socialise and for entertainment.

The cost of living continues to be a concern which must be addressed and there were important measures announced in the Budget including the State Pension increase by 4.8% from April 2026, impacting 700,000 pensioners across Wales as well as the extension to the freeze on fuel duty until September 2026. Households will also see a £150 reduction in their energy bills. There is still more to do but it is important to acknowledge the measures that are there to help.

The Budget also saw an additional £505 million in funding for Welsh Government. Working with other MPs in North East Wales, I have been pushing for more support for our area, alongside the Flintshire Wrexham Investment Zone, we have seen the Pride in Place and Pride in Place impact funding both of which Wrexham will receive directly from the UK Government. Last week the new small modular nuclear reactors at Wylfa were announced together with an AI zone in North Wales and the production of semi-conductors in South Wales, all of which have supply chain implications for our area and therefore job opportunities. The UK Government is also supporting the Welsh Government’s commitment to coal tip safety with £25 million. The improvements in our transport infrastructure particularly in terms of rail are already beginning with the Padeswood sidings and on a noticeable everyday level, increased services between Wrexham and Chester and Wrexham and Bidston.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

The Budget will be delivered by the Chancellor on Wednesday. As a country we continue to experience extremely challenging circumstances in our economy and public services after 14 years of Conservative governments, Covid, Brexit, increasing global insecurity, the tariffs introduced by President Trump, and the effects of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent conflict. This is the backdrop to the decisions that the Chancellor and the Treasury are making.

Many of you have been in contact about what you would like to see in the Budget, and I wanted to share with you, my priorities. I have asked for support for hospitality, smaller high street businesses and services, particularly in relation to VAT, National Insurance and business rates. I have also written to the Chancellor together with my colleague Steve Witherden, asking for a pause in inheritance tax proposals for farms whilst a full impact assessment for Wales is done. As an MP for a former coal mining area, I would like to see the Treasury return the BCSSS Investment Reserve to members. Along with colleagues, I have been making that case to ministers. I also support the idea of a targeted levy on online gambling to address child poverty.

I was delighted to join A Level Politics and Law students at Coleg Cambria last Friday for a robust discussion about the role of an MP, legislation and scrutiny as well as the upcoming budget and the UK Labour Government. The students were fantastic: engaged and articulate, expertly supported by their lecturer Mel. The UK Government plans to extend the vote to 16-year-olds in general elections and of course next year, hopefully many of these students will register to vote and participate in the Senedd elections in May.

Despite Friday’s inclement weather, the welcoming interior of the newly reopened Old Library on Queen’s Square was fantastic to see. The sympathetic refurbishment really shows the original features of the building but ready for 21st century working as a creative hub. I look forward to seeing how the building is used, especially in support of the Wrecsam 2029 City of Culture bid.

Transport for Wales have announced that there will be 2 trains an hour between Wrexham General and Chester from 14th December, doubling the service. Furthermore, on Mondays to Saturdays, there are new trains at 05:54 from Bidston to Wrexham General and at 20:51 from Wrexham Central to Bidston. Connectivity for Wrexham was one of my election pledges and in terms of public transport I have been working with Ken Skates MS and others to ensure the improvements that the people of Wrexham have been asking for are delivered. This is really good to see and there is still more to do.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Last week also saw the announcement of two major infrastructure projects for North Wales funded by the UK Government which will have an impact here in Wrexham. North Wales will have a new AI Growth Zone as well as a small modular nuclear reactor to be built on Ynys Mon. According to the UK Government a total of 3,450 jobs will come to North Wales as a direct result of the new AI Growth Zone, covering temporary and construction roles as well as jobs in AI research and development. This brings the total number of jobs announced for the area to nearly 6,500. This will create supply chain jobs in our area and link in with skills and research work already taking place at Wrexham University and Coleg Cambria.

I welcome the publication of a report from the Welsh Affairs Committee which concludes that proposed inheritance tax changes for farmers should be delayed until a full impact assessment on the effects on Welsh farmers is made.

As a member of the committee, I have heard a significant amount of evidence of the impact these changes could have. Furthermore, I know from having met and spoken to farmers in Wrexham and the farming unions that the proposals for inheritance tax changes have caused anger and frustration that the Government isn’t listening. I hope that this report which is endorsed by the National Farmers Union will show that their voice has been heard by MPs on the Welsh Affairs Committee and that we will continue to make the case to the Treasury in the lead up to the Budget. The report points to the differences in between Wales and England in terms of farming practices and conditions, arguing that Westminster needs to understand them better. The UK Government has not provided any specific farming data for Wales nor taken account of the disproportionate impact that the changes to inheritance tax will have on elderly farmers and those with a terminal illness. The committee supports the principle of reforming APR and BPR to close the loophole that has resulted in rich investors buying agricultural land to avoid paying tax but this cannot be at the expense of the small family farms that we have here in Wales.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

As we mark Armistice Day, I was honoured to attend the annual Remembrance Service on Sunday at the R.W.F memorial at Bodhyfryd. It was a poignant service attended by civic leaders, representatives of our armed forces as well as community organisations. It was a fitting tribute to the fallen. I was then honoured to join veterans at the War Memorial Club afterwards.   

In Westminster, it was my privilege to leave a tribute in Parliament's Constituency Garden of Remembrance on behalf of the people of Wrexham. The 80th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War this year has brought into sharp focus the sacrifice of those who fought for our freedom against fascism, especially in light of current global events.

It is therefore vital that the UK Government supports the wellbeing of our armed forces and their families which is why I am so pleased to see the Defence Housing Strategy which will see over 40,000 military homes upgraded and modernised with 800 here in Wales. The ‘Forces First’ approach – underpinned by a new, standalone Defence Housing Service will better manage military homes while keeping them in public hands and deliver new homeownership opportunities for military personnel and veterans.

It was unacceptable to see that satisfaction with the standard of Service Family Accommodation (SFA) fell to record lows in 2023 under the last government, while the Defence Select Committee reported that two thirds of SFA was ‘essentially no longer fit for purpose’. The Committee found that quality of housing was having a significant impact on Armed Forces recruitment, retention and morale. That’s why the current Government’s action is so timely and important. To meet this new era of threat and back the outstanding men and women of our Armed Forces, the UK Labour government has already delivered the largest pay rise for Armed Forces personnel in over 20 years. This housing commitment will accelerate the support given to our armed forces.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Small Business Saturday is a month away. It’s a great opportunity to spotlight the small businesses that make a big difference to our communities and economy. Of course, these businesses need our support all year round and we have some wonderful examples across Wrexham, from independent retailers to local service providers. I’d really like your nominations for local businesses that mean something to you, maybe one that’s really helped you, one you use regularly and wouldn’t be without or one that you think has a brilliant story behind it.  It can be challenging running a small business, but they also have that incredible connection with us, their customers and community. I want to spotlight and celebrate these businesses in the lead up to Small Business Saturday so please get in touch on the number or email below or on my Facebook post to give your nominations.

As November 5th approaches, we are seeing and hearing more fireworks being set off in Wrexham. Just like last year, I have been contacted by concerned residents who worry about the impact of fireworks on their pets. I believe most people use fireworks in a responsible, safe and appropriate manner, and there are laws in place to address situations where fireworks are misused. I welcome the Government’s commitment to engage with businesses, consumer groups and charities to gather evidence on the issues with and impacts of fireworks to inform any decisions on fireworks policy and the future legislative framework. I know that ministers are currently examining the detail of existing legislation in relation to fireworks to decide if and where policy changes may be needed. However as an animal lover myself I know what a concern this time of year can be for pet owners. RSPCA research has revealed that 66% of animals are negatively impacted by private firework displays, and 40% of pet owners feel awkward discussing their fireworks concerns with their neighbours. Animals can be massively impacted during fireworks season. Please make sure you think of animals and their owners in your area. If you’re holding a private fireworks display, make sure to give neighbours enough time to prepare. You can also follow the RSPCA advice here: rspca.org.uk/fireworksImpact

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Last week marked the 59th anniversary of the Aberfan disaster, where 144 people were killed, including 116 children, when tip 7 of the Merthyr Vale Colliery engulfed part of the village of Aberfan including Pantglas Junior School. The tragedy brought an incredible response from across Wales, including here in Wrexham, where people travelled south to help with the rescue effort as well as sending financial and emotional support. The Welsh Government and UK Government are committed to coal tip safety across Wales to ensure that communities are protected, and this work is ongoing.

I listened to oral evidence as a member of the Welsh Affairs Committee about the environmental and economic legacy of Wales’ industrial past, including how initiatives like the new £547 million Local Growth Fund, can support regeneration. The Local Growth Fund will benefit communities across Wales, including former industrial areas and is another example of the Welsh Government working with the UK Government. The money replaces EU funding which ended after Brexit and will support people into work, helping them to gain skills and qualifications. It also aims to help Welsh businesses grow and to export, particularly in sectors like health and biotechnology, financial technology and low-carbon energy. Local authorities and regional partners will play a key role in shaping spending priorities. There will also be a public consultation to help determine how the funding should be targeted.

This Saturday sees the first of my Voice for Wrexham events with the topic being hospital parking. This is an opportunity for people to come together to discuss ideas for how this issue could be resolved. I know this is a subject which people feel strongly about, and many have personal experiences of. There will be representatives from key organisations at the event. It will be a chance to discuss ideas and potential solutions and share those with them. Registration for this event is open until tomorrow. Please book via my website: https://www.andrewforlabourwrexham.org.uk/voice-of-wrexham-01-11-2025/ or contact my office on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

I am delighted to see that Wrexham will benefit from the UK Government’s “Pride in Place Impact” funding, meaning an additional £1.5 million on top of the £20 million already committed as part of the UK Government’s “Plan for Neighbourhoods”. The idea of the “Pride in Place” funding is to improve public spaces, which could include fixing broken bus shelters, reopening park toilets, more bins to help stop litter and revamping run-down leisure centres.

This new money will be allocated to Wrexham County Borough Council and can be used anywhere across the county borough. This announcement scales up the work already underway, helping communities regenerate and restoring local pride. I will be working in partnership with Wrexham County Borough Council to identify what our communities would like the funding to be spent on and to consider what would have the greatest impact across Wrexham. 

Booking is open for my Voice of Wrexham event on the issue of hospital parking. It’s been great to see people coming forward with solutions and wanting to discuss them and this is the point of the event. A big thank you to those who have already signed up. If you would like to, please book in via my website: https://www.andrewforlabourwrexham.org.uk/voice-of-wrexham-01-11-2025/ or by contacting my office on the number below.

Even though it’s October, thoughts are already turning to the busy festive period. I’m excited to launch my Christmas card competition for 2025 which is open to all primary school aged children in the Wrexham area. The theme is ‘fun and play at Christmas in Wrexham’. I wanted a theme that linked into our City of Culture bid for 2029. I can’t wait to see the entries and the details of how to enter are on my website here: https://www.andrewforlabourwrexham.org.uk/andrew-ranger-mp-christmas-card-competition-2025/

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

The recent Elevate your Business conference organised by Wrexham County Borough Council’s Business and Investment team was an excellent opportunity to hear about some of the schemes that will develop Wrexham’s economy, mainly the Flintshire and Wrexham Investment Zone, the Wrexham Gateway project and the 2029 City of Culture bid. The aim is to grow Wrexham even more in terms of somewhere people want to live, work and invest in. It was great to hear from a range of businesses about why they are doing business here but also about the challenges which still need to be overcome. With around 300 people attending, it was a chance to showcase the brilliant businesses we have in Wrexham and explore how we can all work together to ensure that the future of Wrexham is a successful one. A big thank you to Bangor on Dee Racecourse for their fantastic hospitality.

Wrexham University saw the inauguration of Professor Joe Yates at the end of last month, a ceremony which I was privileged to attend. Professor Yates’ focus is very much on community and inclusion, which will really resonate here in Wrexham. His vision for Wrexham University up to 2030 is centred around 3 areas: an excellent student-centred experience; being a leading university for Wales; and successful innovation and transformation. In terms of the latter, next month sees the official opening of CanfodAu, the University’s new engineering building – ‘CanfodAu – Canolfan Peirianneg ac Arloesi’ (Centre of Engineering and Innovation). The building is the first to be funded through the North Wales Growth Deal and will provide a centre for collaboration and developing skills in sustainability, renewables, and high value manufacturing.

At the start of next month, I will be hosting the first of my Voice for Wrexham events. The topic for discussion will be hospital parking. This is an opportunity for people to come together to discuss ideas for how this issue could be resolved. I know this is a subject which people feel strongly about, and many have personal experiences of. There will be representatives from key organisations at the event. It will be a chance to discuss ideas and potential solutions and share those with them. Registration for this event is now open. Please book via my website https://www.andrewforlabourwrexham.org.uk/voice-of-wrexham-01-11-2025/ or contact my office on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Last weekend saw two incredible events come to Wrexham County Borough.

Firstly, the Baton of Hope Tour wound its way across Wrexham, starting in Chirk and ending at Wrexham University. Despite the less than ideal weather conditions thanks to Storm Amy, the support along the route was great to see. The Hope Hubs provided space to reflect and pause, with wonderful contributions and performances. Eagles Meadow was the centre for Karamba Samba to herald the arrival of the baton with rhythm and music. The success of the event was testament to the strength of those who carried the baton, many of whom had been affected by suicide. As a baton bearer myself, it was a special, powerful and emotional day. I was privileged that people shared their stories with me and it really highlighted the importance of keeping the conversation and awareness going. I also want to acknowledge the brilliant organising by Susan Dray and Zoe Whitehead who managed the logistics of the event which has involved a year of planning. A huge thank you to you both.

Secondly the Terry Fox Run returned to Bellevue Park on Sunday with participants running and walking the route to raise money for cancer research. Terry Fox was 18 when he was diagnosed with bone cancer and had his right leg amputated above the knee. Whilst in hospital, affected by what he saw and the stories he heard, he decided to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research, this journey was called the Marathon of Hope. This legacy has continued since his death in 1981. Wrexham is one of five locations in the UK to host an event and it was great to see so many people involved. I’m not a runner myself and I really enjoyed walking the route with everyone, the camaraderie was fantastic.

These were two events that really show the best of our community here in Wrexham.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Last week saw the 91st Anniversary of the Gresford disaster. What happened at Gresford colliery has left an indelible mark on our area. The annual events at the Gresford Memorial, the Miner’s Rescue and the 1-minute silence at the Wrexham home match last Tuesday were some of the different ways that people could show their respects to those who lost their lives on 22nd September 1934.

For me, I really reflected not only on the disaster but also the aftermath, whilst visiting an exhibition at Wrexham Library.  It was fascinating to see a set of documents about the disaster, brought to Wrexham by the National Archives for the very first time.

The documents included one particularly shocking piece, a notebook containing the air measurements ordered by the mine manager William Bonsall. The measurements were falsified and significantly, the man who was told to make up those readings, is also included in the records through his statement to the police.

It was also so moving to see the names of people who had signed a petition pleading with the authorities for the return of the remains of their loved ones and their reaction to the news that their bodies were to be entombed underground. There were deeply personal letters written by people living in Brynteg and Pentre Broughton, talking about their family members and wanting the closure of being able to bury them.

Speaking to staff from the National Archives on my visit, it was clear that there had been a lot of interest in the documents. Whilst this first exhibition was only on for two days to coincide with the anniversary of the disaster, I hope that the documents will return. This will enable more of us to connect with the past and this event, which is such a significant part of the history of Wrexham.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Last week was very important in Westminster with a number of significant pieces of legislation with connections to us here in Wrexham.

On Monday, the Employment Rights Bill returned to the House of Commons. The House of Lords had made 12 amendments to the Bill which would have watered it down. Fortunately, these amendments were firmly defeated by votes including mine. The same can’t be said of the Conservatives or Reform. One clause of the Bill seeks to protect employees from unfair dismissal, from day one. This will have a substantial impact, with the TUC noting that around 8.5 million workers will benefit from this change. They also found that 75% of people here in Wrexham support other aspects of the Bill such as the right to sick pay from the first day of sickness. Another part of the Bill that will really resonate here in Wrexham, will be the end of fire and rehire.

On Tuesday, the Hillsborough Law was laid before Parliament. Along with colleagues, I will ensure that it passes through Parliament, as promised in the Labour Manifesto.  The Hillsborough Law places a legal duty of candour on public officials and authorities to prevent the coverups seen at Hillsborough as well as the Horizon and Infected blood scandals. Furthermore, it would ensure that bereaved families will also have publicly funded legal representation at inquests, making sure both sides are on a fair and equal footing. This is a legacy of Hillsborough and other tragedies that have scarred this country. It is testament to the incredible courage and dignity of the families and campaigners who have fought for decades to ensure the voices of those they had lost were heard.

We also saw the advance of the Sentencing Bill, which as Wrexham is home to HMP Berwyn, has real relevance to us. One of the reforms that I fully support is about the use of suspended sentences and community orders and the pledge to invest £700 million into probation services. Short sentences often do more harm than good as they trap offenders in a cycle of going in and out of prison, a cycle that costs the taxpayer an average of £53,801 each time. Prisoners will one day re-enter society, and they must be ready to contribute to it.

Most importantly, at the centre of the Sentencing Bill must be the victims. They are the ones who live with the consequences of crime. Therefore, the punishment must be adequate to reflect that. The justice system is failing but I want the people of Wrexham to see the benefits as we take steps to improve and reform it. This Bill will help to achieve this. We can then see a future where victims feel safe, knowing justice has been served. A future where offenders are punished fairly but also rehabilitated, ready to rejoin society. And a future where the justice system commands the confidence of the public — because it is working for them, not failing them.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

World Suicide Prevention Day is a chance for organisations and communities around the world to come together to raise awareness and campaign for better suicide prevention.

This year’s global theme is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” with the call to action: “Start the Conversation.” Therefore, the Samaritans’ message is: If you think someone might be suicidal, take action, interrupt their thoughts, and show them you care. Small interruptions you make and actions you take could help someone who is suicidal. You don’t have to be an expert to save someone’s life. To learn more about how to interrupt someone's suicidal thoughts visit: samaritans.org/WSPD.

Baton of Hope is also a charity working to prevent suicide. The Baton of Hope Tour arrives in Wrexham on 4th October and is Britain’s biggest suicide prevention initiative. The route of the tour will start in Caffi Wylfa in Chirk before winding its way across the county borough via Erddig and the Cae Ras before the finale at Wrexham University. Baton of Hope was founded by two fathers who lost their sons to suicide and wanted to turn what had happened into something purposeful. I’m honoured to have been asked to be a baton bearer and to be part of this important day for such a vital cause. Removing the stigma and the silence around suicide is key as it is still the biggest killer of people aged 35 and under in the UK.

If you, or someone you know, need immediate support, there are helplines available who offer 24/7 mental health support and advice:

• Samaritans - Call 116 123
• C.A.L.L Helpline - Call 0800 132 737
• NHS 111 Mental Health Support - Call 111 and select option 2
• Shout - Text 85258

In an emergency, dial 999.

Hospital parking is an issue that has plagued the Maelor for a long time. The Welsh Government rightly wants those attending appointments or visiting patients in our hospital to not have to pay for parking. However, this has also created a situation where the car park is not being used for its primary purposes: patients, staff and visitors.

I know from speaking to many people across Wrexham who have contacted my office, or raised this on the doorstep, that the parking issue is a source of distress and worry.

Pavement parking around the hospital site causes issues for pedestrians, particularly those with disabilities. Following contact with a group of visually impaired constituents, I have been in dialogue with the Health Board about what can be done. There are also issues around parking on match days.

The issue is complex, involving a range of stakeholders and there is not a simple solution. I therefore want to hold the first of my Voice for Wrexham events to explore this issue and bring together those who are involved, interested and care about this issue including you the public, the Health Board, Wrexham County Borough Council and Wrexham AFC amongst others.  Look out for details of how you can sign up for this event, later in the Autumn.  

Mobile signal is another area where we need to see change here in Wrexham as I covered in this column last week.  This week I had the opportunity to meet with Chris Bryant, Minister of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport). He and his officials were keen to hear about my survey and I shared some preliminary results. The survey is still open and can be accessed via my website. I will be working with his Department as well as Wrexham County Borough Council and of course mobile providers to push for the improvement we want for Wrexham.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Connectivity is something which is vital for Wrexham and an area that I campaigned on in the election last year.

Constituents regularly contact my office as they are affected by poor signal and in some areas, this is causing issues around safety and presenting challenges in peoples’ daily lives. This needs to change. These are private companies providing a service to the public and it is an area for improvement in Wrexham.

I have met with mobile providers recently as well as raising the case with ministers. I have agreed to work with them to improve signal quality across Wrexham but they need a picture of mobile signal and that’s what this survey will provide.  

For too long, residents have suffered from poor signal, whether it’s Brymbo or Bangor on Dee, Pentre Broughton or Penley, Rossett or Rhosddu and of course the city centre. I want to demonstrate the issue to Ministers and the mobile providers so that we can see a change.

I have launched a survey which I am asking residents to complete, to build up a picture of how signal varies but also to see if there are differences between providers and look at mobile internet too.

The UK Government target is for 95% coverage and currently North Wales has approximately 79% geographic 4G coverage from all four mobile network operators. This is compared to the UK average of 88%. The Digital Connectivity Project led by Ambition North Wales will be addressing this over the next 4 years, working with local authorities, Welsh Government and the UK Government.

Mobile phone providers are private companies providing a service to the public and it is essential for Wrexham that the situation improves.

The survey can be accessed via my website www.andrewforlabourwrexham.org.uk and a printed version via my office, please contact 01978 788854 if you require one.

The survey will run until the end of September.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

August sees the annual Play Day on Queen’s Square and Llwyn Isaf which brings into focus the importance of play and the impact it can have on children and teenagers. Play Wales recently asked 7,825 of them for their views on what was good and not good about play opportunities in their local area. 5,477 played out for some or most days in a week and 5,634 were satisfied with where they played, however 23% of disabled children did not feel safe when they play out. Whilst this was a national survey it has implications for us here in Wrexham.

On my recent visit to Gwenfro Valley Adventure playground I saw the importance of unstructured play. The playground enables children to use loose materials, experience varied terrain and play in self-built structures. This not only supports wellbeing but also builds crucial life skills. The playground has been a mainstay on Caia Park for 18 years and it was clear to see why. Parents and carers are there with their children, but they often take the opportunity to engage with the staff and seek support which they might not access elsewhere. They are signposted to services and the staff provide a consistent face that they can trust.

AVOW will now be supporting the continued work of the playground and secure it financially. AVOW have shown their expertise and knowledge in play provision through their work at The Land in Plas Madoc and this is fantastic and welcome news for Gwenfro Valley.

Gwenfro Valley and the Venture are also part of the Holiday Hunger project which runs in every school holiday and provides filled rolls, fruit and snacks for children who attend both sites. This project continues to be run by volunteers and is supported by Wrexham Foodbank and other local suppliers and supermarkets. A huge thank you to all those involved.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Over this fortnight, thousands of students will be receiving their GCSE and A Level results across Wales. It is a time many of us can remember, at times daunting as you face the next chapter but also a chance to take a new or different route.

As education is devolved, the Welsh Government has pursued its own reforms of the school curriculum to make what our children are learning relevant to the 21st Century world that they are living and working in. This has also seen changes to GCSEs which have come in waves over the last 2 years. Significantly in Wales, 2027 will see the first teaching of the new VCSEs which are vocational qualifications including public services, hospitality and catering, and engineering.

As an MP, school visits are something that I really enjoy. What has struck me over the last year is that talking to young people whether at primary, secondary or college, that political engagement is there, and as politicians we need to do more to harness that and encourage involvement. There are thriving school councils in our schools, giving learners a voice and a forum to represent their peers and make changes that will impact everyone. It’s great to see school councils encourage representation in this way which can often lead to other leadership opportunities and inspire wider active citizenship.

 UK Parliament Week is an annual event, this year running from the 24th-30th November.  The idea behind UK Parliament week is to spread the word about what Parliament is, what it does and how you can get involved. It’s open to schools and youth organisations so Brownies, Cubs and other groups can sign up. When you sign up you will receive a free pack to help you get informed about UK Parliament, take action and make an impact on the issues you care about. We already have a great number of schools and organisations signed up in Wrexham but if you are interested, sign up here www.ukparliamentweek.org

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

What an incredible week in Wrexham with the National Eisteddfod bringing thousands of visitors to Isycoed and to the city centre. The atmosphere on the Maes was fantastic with Pentref Wrecsam showcasing what our city has to offer in terms of bold ideas and vision: the 2029 City of Culture bid, Stori Brymbo which will be such a unique attraction when it opens, and This Is Wrecsam amongst many others all showing what a destination Wrexham is. I was delighted to see so many local groups and organisations represented as well as ones from across Wales, showing the diversity of Wales and its inclusivity. As a Welsh learner myself it was an ideal opportunity to practise and thank you to those who were patient with me!

I also know that the city centre has seen lots of visitors taking the opportunity for some time out from the Maes. It’s been great to see businesses able to take the opportunity to extend their opening or diversify their offering or increase their production to meet the demand.

The Eisteddfod also coincided with the Play Day on Wednesday where so many children and their families were enjoying the activities on offer. A huge thank you to all involved in this wonderful annual event.

There are plenty of excellent developments in the city centre, such as the Butchers’ Market and the updating of High Street which are part of Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns fund which Cabinet Secretary Jane Bryant was able to see for herself last week. The transformation of the old library into an arts and cultural hub and of course the Museum of Two Halves which will be open next year. The Eisteddfod also saw the announcement of a partnership between Coleg Cambria and Wrexham University working together with Bangor University and Grŵp Llandrillo Menai to form the North Wales Tertiary Alliance (NWTA). The aim is to strengthen education, skills and support economic growth and opportunity across North Wales.  This can only be of benefit to young people and learners across Wrexham and could not be more welcome.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

I receive communication from constituents about a wide range of issues. One of the concerns expressed is around asylum seekers. This is also a topic which sees substantial disinformation and misinformation across media and social media. Language and terminology is really important and I want to address some of the common questions that I receive on this subject.

 “Asylum” means “protection given by a country to someone fleeing from persecution in their own country” (House of Commons Library). A person seeking asylum is often awaiting refugee status. If they do not qualify for refugee status, they may still be granted leave to remain in the UK for humanitarian or other reasons.

“Why are hotels and luxury apartments being used to house immigrants when there is a housing crisis in the UK?” This is an example of a question I have received from a constituent recently. It is worth noting that there are 3,253 asylum seekers in Wales and 107 in Wrexham according to figures as of March this year. Where hotels are used, the accommodation is dormitory style, all facilities are closed and not available, food is provided but not choice of menu.  To be clear, there are no asylum hotels in Wrexham and those seeking asylum are in dispersed accommodation.

This means the Home Office gives contracts to the private sector not councils to find accommodation. This accommodation is a flat or room in an HMO for example. Asylum seekers do not have access to the welfare system or any benefits. They receive a weekly subsistence payment rate of £49.18 per person for people living in self-catered accommodation or £8.86 a week for those in full-board accommodation like a hotel. The weekly amount is credited to a pre-paid debit card which can use be to pay for goods or withdraw cash.

According to the House of Commons Library, in 2024, asylum seekers and refugees made up around 16% of immigrants to the UK. It is important to understand that most people who migrate to the UK do so legally for work or family reasons. There is a shortage of skilled workers in the UK, as we have seen in the NHS. Work is ongoing to address this.

The small boat crossings must be addressed along with the problems in the asylum system where the backlog is unacceptable. The UK Government has recently made an agreement with France and this new pilot scheme will see small boat arrivals being detained and returned to France. An equal number of migrants will then be able to come to the UK from France through a new legal route. Those coming into the UK must be fully documented and go through a stringent security check as opposed to uncontrolled entry such as small boats.

In addition to the asylum process, the UK has operated various routes for people seeking humanitarian protection in the past. The three recent examples of this are the Afghan, Syrian and Ukrainian resettlement programmes. Like other countries, the UK follows the 1951 Refugee Convention that a refugee should not be returned to a country where they face serious threats to their life or freedom and that there are minimum standards for how refugees should be treated including a right to housing, work and education.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

It’s been great to be back in Wrexham and visiting local schools and organisations. Year 9 students at Ysgol Rhosnesni High School were participating in the Politics Project’s Digital Dialogue and asked me insightful questions about my role, priorities for Wrexham and who had influenced me. It was great to meet young people who were so politically engaged. This was brought into more focus by the UK Government’s announcement that it would be extending the voting age to 16- and 17-year-olds by the next election. This will mean that young people in Wales will now be able to vote in general elections as well as those for the council and Senedd.

Increasing opportunity for young people is vital and transport is a key enabler of that. The Welsh Government has launched the £1 bus ticket for single journeys for 16–21-year-olds with £3 a day for unlimited travel from September.  You need a MYTRAVELPASS and can apply for one now by visiting  https://mytravelpass.tfw.wales/. A further £7m will be invested to extend the scheme for 5–15-year-olds from November 2025. These will mean connectivity and accessibility and the ability for young people to access education, training or employment across Wales.

I am also really grateful to the team at INFO Shop on Lambpit Street who shared their experiences of supporting young people in Wrexham. INFO Shop provide an incredible range of services and their information, advice and guidance is free and they welcome people from 11-25. They offer counselling, housing advice, family and relationship advice, careers, financial advice and a sexual health clinic. The team were keen to publicise what they offer, and they can be found on social media and via the website.

Your Space is an amazing local charity, and I was privileged to tour of their facilities in Llay and to hear about their work in our community. These include outreach, family support, the sensory room, after school club, and holiday club, dance and music, family swim as well as respite. Your Space work with children with an autism diagnosis but also those who don't yet have one. They also offer presentations to local businesses and organisations about autism. It’s well worth contacting them to find out more.

Bloomers Wellbeing CIC are also seeking feedback from the local community about their proposed service “The Right Time Project” designed to reach children and teenagers who are struggling but do not meet the thresholds for clinical support. All the information for the consultation is on their Facebook page and it closes on Thursday this week.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

The National Eisteddfod arrives in Wrexham from 2nd to 9th August and is known as the largest cultural festival in Europe, celebrating Welsh language, arts, and heritage. The first Eisteddfod was in 1861, and it has now broadened into a diverse and modern event, true to its roots but showing the changing landscape of our country and language.

Already we can see ‘Harddu’ coming to life across our community as people decorate their homes, gardens and other areas to welcome visitors to our City. Ribbons, bunting, banners, flags, and many other displays are starting to appear, and we will see more and more as the Eisteddfod approaches.

The Eisteddfod Maes is in Isycoed where 1-way directions will be in place on some of the lanes approaching the Maes to ease traffic. There will be clear yellow signs to direct you to the car park and plenty of stewards. The Eisteddfod is encouraging sustainable travel and therefore an accessible shuttle bus will operate from 8am until midnight from Wrexham General, King Street Bus Station and the Maes. The Eisteddfod website and Transport for Wales have all the details to help you plan your journey.   

If you do visit you can expect to see writers, poets, choirs, musicians and plenty of performances to enjoy, with some of them having translation available. There are art exhibitions and trade stands. The food and drink offering is extensive with plenty of options showcasing what Wales and Wrexham has to offer. The Eisteddfod caters for all ages with plenty of children at the ‘Pentref Plant’ with the focus being on play and fun. The ‘Sinemaes’ will have workshops, talks and screenings including some short films about Wrexham. The Science and Technology Village mixes events for children and talks aimed at adults. The Literary Pavilion – or Y Babell Lên – is where you will see pets and writers engaging in lectures and discussions and a daily poetry competition called the Ymryson.

As a Welsh learner myself I’m looking forward to practising my Welsh and visiting the learners tent (Pentref Dysgu Cymraeg). It doesn’t matter about the level of your Welsh skills; you will be welcome on the Maes.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Wrexham Pride 2025 is just under 2 weeks away on Saturday 26th July with the aim to promote Wrecsam as an LGBTQ+ friendly city and to show support and solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. The plans for the event look fantastic with a street market starting at 10am on Queen’s Square and a march beginning at 12pm from Llwyn Isaf.  There will be lots of local community and information stands and you can also apply to be a volunteer. This year’s shop window display competition will be judged on the 18th July with judges looking for creativity, use of ethically sourced and sustainable materials and visual impact being some of the criteria used. All shops and businesses within Wrexham County Borough are eligible and entry for this can be found on the Pride Wrecsam website.

As with so many events across Wrexham, Pride Wrecsam would not be possible without volunteers giving up huge amounts of time to organise, fundraise and it, so a huge thank you to them. Check out the website for further information www.pridewrecsam.org

Pride month is in June, as that was the month when the Stonewall riots took place in the US in 1969. On 28 June 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn in New York, the second time in a week, throwing out 200 people and attacking them. The community reacted with a week of protests and riots, inspiring others round the world to do the same. A month after these the first openly gay march took place in New York with the first Pride festival in the UK in 1972.

Many of us have attended pride events in Chester, Liverpool and beyond and it’s great to see one here in Wrexham for its second year.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Last week the UK Government announced a long-awaited review into the pay and leave that new parents can get after the birth of a child. The system has not been reviewed for years and in that time, peoples’ working habits and families have changed. The Women and Equalities Committee recently reported that the UK's parental leave system was "one of the worst in the developed world" with "fundamental flaws".

According to the campaign group The Dad Shift, one in three fathers take no paternity leave at all (paternity leave is currently 2 weeks in the UK) and despite shared parental leave being available, UK Government data shows that it is rarely taken.  The UK system is also confusing to navigate with eight different types of parental leave available. Statutory maternity pay is less than half of the weekly National Living Wage for example.

There are some interesting comparisons and approaches across Europe. In Spain for example, fathers can have 16 weeks at full pay, including for those who are self-employed. There is no cap on the salary paid. It means parental leave is now equal between parents in Spain. In Denmark, fathers including those who are self-employed, can take up to 24 weeks off work at full pay supported by the state. After eleven weeks, the remaining 13 weeks can be transferred to the birth partner to be used as extra maternity leave. Parents also have the option to postpone up to 13 weeks of parental leave until their child is aged nine.

Research by the Centre for Progressive Policy found that there was a 4% decrease in the gender wage gap in countries with more than 6 weeks of paid paternity leave. Furthermore only 18% of people they surveyed felt that 2 weeks of paternity pay in the UK was enough.

So, there is plenty to work on and to consider. The review is expected to take 18months.

If you would like to raise anything with me about this issue or any other, please contact my office on 01978 788854 or email [email protected]

Last week saw the publication of the government’s Industrial and Trade strategies.

North-East Wales already has a huge amount to celebrate and the Industrial Strategy will promote its wide-ranging strengths to investors. For example, in Advanced Manufacturing: North-East Wales has significant strengths in Aerospace, clustered around Airbus' Broughton site, and Automotive, including Toyota's Deeside plant. Advance Manufacturing Research Centre Cymru provides a regional centre for innovation, and will complement the recently announced Advanced Manufacturing Investment Zone for Wrexham and Flintshire

In terms of Clean Energy Industries, North Wales has significant assets to build on, with Crown Estate research finding that upcoming offshore wind schemes in the Celtic Sea could unlock up to 4.5GW of floating offshore wind supporting over 5,000 jobs, with the potential for up to 12GW. HyNet CCUS has the potential to generate thousands of jobs and billions in investment, including £2bn in supply chain contracts through its carbon storage and capture.

The recent US trade deal is so important to Wales as the US is Wales’ second biggest trade destination. The deal will enable the automotive industry and Welsh farmers to access more markets. The Free Trade Agreement with India will halve whisky tariffs from 150% to 75%. Wales has secure access for key exports such as lamb.

The regeneration of Shotton Paper Mill which is within the Wrexham Flintshire Investment Zone will, thanks to investment last year, turn the area into the UK’s largest paper manufacturing site. This will safeguard 147 jobs and create a further 220 when fully commissioned. Around 140 jobs will be created in North Wales after Knauf Insulation unveiled plans to invest £170 million in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Shotton. The impact of these investments will be felt in the supply chain in Wrexham and beyond. We are seeing the benefits of two Labour governments working together to further economic growth in Wales.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

This week is Armed Forces Week and a chance to show our support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets. The week culminates in Armed Forces Day on Saturday 28th June.

Hightown Barracks is always a focus point for the history of the armed forces in Wrexham, dating back to 1877. Many people in Wrexham have links to the barracks, perhaps through relatives who enlisted for World War 1 there or through the commando unit based there in World War II. Others remember it as a battalion headquarters and Company location for the 3rd (Volunteer) Battalion of the Royal Welch Fusiliers. Today its role is varied as I learned from my recent visit and tour with Colonel Lock and today’s armed forces face real difficulties not only after years of cuts but also in the context of a rapidly changing global situation and have my full support to meet their needs.

The Armed Forces Commissioner Bill continues its progress through Parliament and will establish an independent Commissioner to serve as a direct point of contact for Armed Forces personnel and their families. The Commissioner will consider, investigate and make recommendations to address welfare issues faced by serving personnel and their families during their service life. I am privileged to have been on the Bill Committee and to therefore be part of tangible and important change for our armed services and their welfare, which has been neglected for too long.

The upcoming Strategic Defence Review will tackle the state of Armed Forces accommodation. Wales’s 800 forces family homes are in line to benefit from the significant investment uplift, as part of an overall £7bn in funding during this parliament. According to the House of Commons Library, there are an estimated 3,450 households in Wrexham who have at least one military veteran. Veteran support is crucial, which is why the UK Government has launched the VALOUR system to ensure easier access to essential care and support.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

We are really starting to see projects connected with our 2029 City of Culture bid take shape: from the incredible Public Art Trail to the Football Museum for Wales which is due to be completed next year.

The City of Culture Trust was awarded £175,000 by Wrexham County Borough Council following a recent successful grant application to the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF). Organisations are invited to submit proposals for grants from £5,000 to £10,000 to develop test events, e.g. an artistic or cultural projects that could be part of the new Cultural Commissions Programme which ultimately supports the City of Culture bid. The test events must be completed by 31st January 2026 and the closing date for this fund is midday 1st July 2025. The idea being the test events could be scaled up to bigger projects by 2029.

Being the UK City of Culture would bring significant economic and social benefits to Wrexham in terms of inward investment, job creation, increasing access to cultural activity and amplifying Wrexham’s story to the whole of the UK.

Whilst the formal bidding process for 2029 is yet to open, last month I asked the Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport when the guidance for would be released. The response was that it would be released in “due course”. I will of course continue to press for this.   

Interestingly, as we mark Refugee Week, the theme of community, bridging divides and offering support is something that definitely resonates here in Wrexham.  

This Refugee Week everyone is invited to spend time with friends and build new connections in and beyond our neighbourhoods, to extend our sense of connection and build relationships across our neighbourhoods, something which I know already happens in Wrexham. It might be through an interaction, a visit to somewhere new, having time for a meaningful conversation, or volunteering. There are lots of ways to build and develop community.  

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Last week saw my Private Member’s Bill on Licensing Hours Extensions pass on to the next stage following my presentation of the Bill to the committee.

The Bill proposes that pubs and other licensed premises should be able to open for extended hours for significant national events. The benefit of this small change to existing legislation will mean that at short notice, such as Wales progressing in a major tournament whether it’s the Rugby World Cup or the Football Euros, venues would be able to open their doors to customers at times of the day that suit the events. The important change being that they would be able to serve their full range of drinks.

Ultimately if the Bill becomes law it will reduce costs, time and  bureaucracy for hospitality venues, local council licensing offices and Parliament, whilst making it easier for communities to come together in pubs and bars to celebrate major national moments.

The Bill now moves on to the report stage and 3rd Reading in the House of Commons.

Volunteers’ Week is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the incredible contribution that volunteers make to our communities. I visited CALL Mental Health Helpline which is staffed by volunteers and operators to hear about the vital support that they provide. Their service is free and confidential and listens to those who call as well as offering guidance and emotional support for people facing mental health challenges and signposting them to other relevant support services.

I also visited the Venture on Caia Park to hear from Chief Officer Councillor Malcolm King about their plans for their share of the Welsh Government Child Poverty Innovation and Supporting Communities Grant. The Venture plan to use the money to build on the Children’s Commissioner’s ‘No Wrong Door’ report. This aims to reduce the effects of child poverty by helping more families access services by creating additional capacity. We also talked more widely about the range of community-based services that The Venture provides, vital to the community in Caia Park. What really shone through was the importance of working collaboratively, something which Caia does so well through its Caia Park Together initiative and this is something that other areas of Wrexham would benefit from.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Last week, along with colleagues on the Welsh Affairs Select Committee, we took evidence from a number of witnesses for our enquiry into Prisons, Probation and Rehabilitation in Wales.

As MP for the constituency with the largest prison in the UK, HMP Berwyn, this session was particularly relevant to our area. I also wanted to hear the experiences of those representing people working in the prison and probation services.

Berwyn faces pressures as it is increasingly being used to house the remand population from North-West England. The dynamics at Berwyn alongside its size is very different to jails like Swansea or Cardiff that tend to house inmates who are more local to the area. Furthermore, there have also been staffing challenges at Berwyn however recently the staffing levels have come close to a full complement. The importance of staffing and leadership was emphasised at all prisons. High recall rates in Wales are also putting pressure on the prison and probation services.

There is no women’s prison in Wales and we heard about the impact of this on women and their families. Welsh women are held in prisons in England, often meaning significant journeys for relatives wanting to visit them. Women from Wrexham for example, might be taken to HMP Styal near Manchester. A report entitled “Time to Care” emphasised the importance of keeping close ties with families to support. Following on from this, I welcome the Justice Secretary’s announcement on Thursday that the Government will take the recommendations of the Gauke report and introduce a presumption against custodial sentences of less than a year. As 77% of women sentenced to custody received a sentence of 12 months or less, this change should have a significant aspect on women.

Having spoken to organisations working in our community like the Wallich and NACRO, I understand the issues around homelessness and reoffending and I am looking to work with them to see how we can strengthen prevention and rehabilitation efforts.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

I welcome the UK Government’s trade deal with the EU as announced last week. The EU is our biggest trading partner, and this deal helps to right the many wrongs of the previous government.  When Labour was elected, we said that we would reduce barriers to trade and economic growth, and we meant it. The UK Government is respecting the decision made by the British people in 2016 and whilst there is no return to the EU, this deal make things easier for businesses as well as people in day-to-day life.

Before I was elected as MP for Wrexham, and since, different businesses both large and small, locally and regionally, have told me time and time again how the Conservative Government’s Brexit deal had made their daily experience as a business more challenging: more expensive, more difficult, more barriers, higher costs. This had led to some being forced to close due to the higher costs and increased bureaucracy. We have all seen the impact on our own pockets with food prices rising and hospitality businesses struggling as well as those who previously exported to the EU.

The deal includes:

• Making it easier for food and drink to be imported and exported by reducing the red tape. This agreement will have no time limit, giving vital certainty to businesses.
• Some routine checks on animal and plant products will be removed completely.
• Closer co-operation on emissions through linking our respective Emissions Trading System.
• British steel exports are protected from new EU rules and restrictive tariffs, through a bespoke arrangement for the UK.
• British holidaymakers will be able to use more eGates in Europe.
• Introduction of ‘pet passports’ for UK cats and dogs.
• The EU-UK security and defence partnership means that British firms will be treated as European, so can benefit from defence procurement.

I welcome the agreement to explore access to Erasmus + as well as a Youth Mobility scheme; it is important that young people have access to opportunities that previous generations enjoyed and were denied to them for too long.

Co-operation on defence is also part of the deal. The EU and the UK share the same challenging security environment, and both have vital interests in the peace, security and stability of Europe and beyond.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

In the House of Commons last week, I asked the Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander for her assessment of the adequacy of the performance of rail services operating from North Wales.

Her response was,

“Despite recent improvements, the performance of Avanti West Coast services in North Wales is still not good enough. Poor Network Rail infrastructure reliability also remains an issue. North Wales and its surrounding regions have such huge potential, and so I'm actively engaged with the Welsh Government on plans to create a transport system that meets the needs of all our communities and delivers economic growth.”

There is acknowledgement by the UK Government that Wales has been underfunded in terms of rail infrastructure for decades. It will take time to reset this.

We await the decision by Network Rail and the Office for Road and Rail about the reinstatement of a frequent direct service from Wrexham to London via Shrewsbury. I am working with other MPs to support this bid which has tangible economic benefits for the communities along the route. We recently wrote to Sir Andrew Haines, Chief Executive of Network Rail, to endorse WSMR's (Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands Railway) application. 

Furthermore, the spending review next month should bring news of the Wrexham to Bidston Line as well as the North Wales mainline across to Holyhead. I have consistently argued for the importance of these projects at Welsh Affairs Select Committee and in the Commons Chamber.

Transport connectivity is vital to economic growth as I outlined during the election campaign last year. Our connection with the North-West of England therefore means any decisions regarding Crewe and Liverpool for example, will have a direct impact on Wrexham. I view transport as opportunity and improvements to rail have been a particular focus for me since I was elected. Transport is essential for tourism, something which we are experiencing a significant increase in here in Wrexham. It also enables access to employment and access to education which leads to prosperity of our area but also a knock-on effect to the rest of North Wales and into North West England.  

Along with a number of other stakeholders, I will be attending the Transport for Wales Public Transport Summit in Wrexham later this week. It brings together transport and business leaders from Wales and England to explore how economic prosperity can be supported by improvements to public transport.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

This week is Mental Health Awareness week, and the theme is “community”. Communities are vital for our mental health and our wellbeing. They provide connections, support a sense of belonging and purpose.

It’s estimated that around 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health issue at some point in their life. Mental Health Awareness Week encourages open conversations, reducing stigma so that we can share stories, and advocate for better mental health support. The charity Mind is using the tagline “no mind left behind” to reflect the idea that our mental health is also our physical health, finances and relationships.

The BBC reported last month that NHS Wales 111 "press two" mental health urgent support line has recorded an average of 5,969 calls each month. Furthermore, the Welsh Government's 10-year Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy focuses on early intervention to avoid crises, preventative care and greater social prescribing which connects people to community-based activities. The idea is that support would be given over the phone, at a GP surgery or local mental health service, who would then find appropriate help.

In Wrexham, the Rainbow Centre for example is part of the Wrexham wide Social Prescribing Service which is based in GP surgeries across our area and provides a range of options for service users including talking therapy and referrals to other agencies as well as identifying opportunities for clients to connect and engage with their own communities. In fact, the Rainbow Foundation won the title of Best Mental Health Support Service at the Mental Health and Wellbeing Wales Awards in March. This an incredible achievement and I look forward to visiting the Rainbow Centre later this month.

If you are registered with a GP surgery and are over 18, you can ask to be referred to the Social Prescribing Link Worker.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

This year marks the 80th Anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day with plans to commemorate this across the country and here in Wrexham. The 8th May will begin with a service at St Giles Church followed by a parade through the centre of Wrexham, led by RWF Volunteer Corps of Drums when the Standards will be paraded by different military associations. This will culminate in a wreath laying ceremony at the war memorial on Bodhyfryd as Wrexham pays tribute to this incredible generation who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. As always, Wrexham will play its part in these national commemorations, mindful of the role played by servicemen and women from our area and given our proud connection with the Royal Welsh Fusiliers.

VE Day on 8th May 1945 was a national holiday and events were organised to mark the occasion including services, street parties and parades. Winston Churchill addressed the nation on the radio and appeared on the balcony of the Ministry of Health in London. However, the war was not over as fighting in the Far East against Japan continued until August 1945. Of course, the celebrations took place in the shadow of the deaths and casualties that many families had experienced, alongside the strain of wartime life: air raids, rationing and other restrictions.

The Imperial War Museum is looking for letters or postcards sent by your family members during the Second World War to their loved ones. This could include soldiers on the front line; men, women and children on the home front; or relatives who contributed to Britain’s war effort from Britain and Commonwealth countries. You can share any examples via the special website https://ve-vjday80.gov.uk/letterstolovedones/.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

At this time of year as Spring bursts into life, we appreciate the spaces of sanctuary and growth in our community – its gardens.

In Wrexham we are so fortunate to have several different projects across the area, many maintained by volunteers who spend hours tending to them for the benefit of others. Here are just a few of the many examples we have:

Incredible Edible are a group of wonderful volunteers who maintain a number of sites in Wrexham with the idea of growing food for free. They have their Rhosddu allotment alongside Mount Street and Madeira Hill sites. They also support the Broom Grove Community Garden on Caia Park which is a fantastic example of community growing. Their volunteer days are on their Facebook page so look out for them. The Growing Space Garden at Caia Park Partnership is also a great project looking for volunteers. Please contact CPP for details of how to get involved.  

Community gardens can be found around Wrexham. For example, the Plas Pentwyn garden in Coedpoeth which also has an orchard, is maintained by volunteers including children from local schools. There is also a new community garden in Gwersyllt which started last month. The common thread here, alongside the idea of growing food is also about developing new skills and making connections with people and maybe finding a new passion.

2 of our high schools Ysgol Rhosnesni and Ysgol Clywedog have successful gardening initiatives in their schools as enrichment for students. And there are also some wonderful projects in our primary schools, encouraging the pupils to understand where food comes from and the importance of a healthy diet.

Erlas Walled Garden is very much a hidden gem in our community. Not only is it a beautiful space but the opportunities it gives to its beneficiaries are immense, supporting them to learn new skills and grow in confidence.

Gardens are so much more than about planting, the bigger picture is so important.  They help to foster a sense of pride in our communities as well as the benefits for the environment and our mental health. As your MP these are real priorities for me.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

At the end of this week, Wrexham will welcome the Carnival of Words once again. This annual event aims to share a love of reading and books with people across the County Borough. This is its 11th year, and it brings a varied programme from historical fiction to meet the author, a writer’s panel, murder mystery and a children’s festival too. The Wrexham Carnival of words team are also part of a wider group exploring the year 1876 a “Year of Wonder” for Wrexham and there are some exciting ideas planned for next year to coincide with the 150th anniversary.

This year’s Carnival of Words festival runs from the 25th April to the 2nd May and includes some fantastic events including authors Elly Griffiths, Kate Kemp and Harriet Evans amongst many others as well as the intriguingly titled “Poetry Live and Dangerous” and “Love Letters to Wrexham”. For those thinking of learning Welsh there is a session with Francesca Sciarrillo and Doctor Cymraeg, Stephen Rule. The full programme can be viewed at www.wrexhamcarnivalofwords.com, events are ticketed with a number of free and chargeable ones.

The 2024 National Literacy Trust Survey found that only 1 in 5 (20.5%) 8- to 18-year-olds read something daily in their free time in 2024, again, the lowest levels they’ve recorded since 2005, with daily reading levels decreasing by 7.5% in the last year alone. The Publisher’s Association research has found that reading for pleasure is the single biggest indicator of a child's future success - even more than family circumstances or household income. That’s why it's crucial that children feel empowered to choose what, when, and where they read.

Reading has been such an important part of my life and I’ve been keen to share this on the recent visits to local schools. Authors, educators, families, schools, libraries, charities, publishers and of course the government we all need to work together to make reading for pleasure a priority.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Last month, the Government released its Green Paper entitled “Pathways to Work” which covered welfare reform. Before and since publication, I have had many constituents contact me with their views about the proposed changes. I have also had several representations from charities. I issued a statement explaining my own concerns, specifically around the proposed changes to PIP and the health component of Universal Credit.

The Green Paper does contain some positive changes: the ‘Right to Try’ which will allow people to try work and return to their previous benefits without reassessment should it doesn’t work out and ‘Pathways to Work’ are both to be welcomed. I was also pleased to see the Unemployment Insurance to protect people with a higher rate of benefit if they fall out of work.

We are now in a consultation phase, and I would like to hear from constituents about their views on the proposed reforms. I would like to use these to further discussions with colleagues and Ministers so that I can represent the views of people in Wrexham more effectively. A Green Paper is the first phase and amendments are often made; it is important that our voices are heard.

In the last few weeks, I have met with and am working with local organisations Advance Brighter Futures, Wrexham Citizen’s Advice Bureau and others to understand the lived experiences of people in our area and how these changes could affect them.

The feedback form can be accessed here https://tinyurl.com/ARangerwelfare. It is also available on my social media sites: Facebook, Instagram and Blue Sky and on my website www.andrewforlabourwrexham.org.uk and will be open until the start of May. You can also request a link to the form or an accessible version by emailing me. 

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

We have seen how tourism is changing Wrexham: coach parties at the Turf, people on walking tours, wandering the streets with a map, queuing in the Wrexham AFC shop. In fact, tourism has grown by £120m in the last 3 years. It has shone a light on things we need for example, such as places for tourists to stay but nevertheless, the signs are incredibly encouraging.

Of course, football is a big draw, how could it not be? With plans moving forward for the Kop, it will make a unique visual imprint on the landscape as well as extending the capacity of the Cae Ras. And with the new football museum alongside the Wrexham Museum, there will be plenty more to see for the fans.

But there is much more to Wrexham and the surrounding area. Of course, we are so close to the World Heritage Site at Pontcysyllte which is a hugely popular but next year will see the opening of Stori Brymbo with its 300-million-year-old fossil forest, something that not a lot of places can boast. Furthermore, Wrecsam 2029 are bidding for City of Culture status for 2029 with ambitious plans which we are already starting to see in the City Centre with the Public Art Trail and the refurbishment of the markets but also ensuring that the bid covers the whole area.

In August we will welcome the National Eisteddfod. The Maes will be situated in Isycoed, celebrating Welsh language and culture with competitions at the heart of it. Whilst this is not in the city centre it gives plenty of opportunity for visitors to explore more widely and take in some of the places I have mentioned, and more!

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

I was delighted to hold my latest constituency surgery in Brymbo. Constituents brought a range of issues which we were able to action as casework. A big thank you to the Enterprise Centre for accommodating us.

Of course, Brymbo’s industrial heritage is what people associate with the area. Its rich veins of coal and iron meant it was the site of significant activity in the 19th and 20th Centuries. Going back even earlier, the discovery of “Brymbo Man” in 1958 was archaeologically important, being discovered alongside a flint knife and beaker, and aged between 35-40. The Bronze Age man is now part of Wrexham Museum’s collection. More and more is being discovered about Brymbo’s history and the new Stori Brymbo will capture the industrial aspect alongside the fascinating fossil forest. It was fantastic to see the developments up there on my visit last week, this project is involving the community at every step and that is so important.

I was also privileged to highlight Wrexham and North Wales at Prime Minister’s Questions where I asked the Prime Minister about the Wrexham and Flintshire Investment Zone and the creation of 6,000 good local jobs as a result. This is vital for opportunities, particularly for young people who will then make the decision to stay in the local area. I have also held important meetings with Ken Skates the Cabinet Secretary for Transport to discuss rail improvements and then with a wider set of Welsh and English MPs we looked more broadly at road, bus, and rail connectivity within Wales and also across the border with England. 2 Labour Governments working together can only be beneficial for Wrexham and Wales.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Many of us either use a landline or know someone who does. The technology that we use at the moment to make landline calls is being upgraded. This has significant implications for people in our community.

BT has taken the decision to replace the old network known as PTSN by January 2027. Other providers that use BT’s network are also needing to contact customers. This is alongside the upgrade of old copper broadband lines to full fibre. In future, landline calls will be delivered digitally using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). You will not need to do anything until your landline provider gets in contact with you, but it’s important not to ignore any communication from them.

Your provider should supply any new equipment you need to make your telephone work, e.g. a new router. Please tell your provider about any special circumstances you have, or any support you might need especially if you are dependent on your landline to make calls.

It’s important to be aware that you may need to check the compatibility of things like your care alarm, health pendant or security alarm if they are connected to your landline. It is also important to speak to your provider if you only have a landline (no mobile phone) and discuss what to do in case of a power cut.

If you are a small business owner please speak to your landline provider for advice, particularly if you use card payment machines, alarms or other security equipment that relies on your landline.

The decision to close the PSTN has been made by the telecoms industry and not the Government. It is crucial that we and those we know, are ready for it.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

With St Patrick’s Day this week, it’s interesting to look at Wrexham’s Irish connection which goes back further than you’d think.

In Wrexham Museum’s collection is a Bronze Age knife, axe head and 4 fragments of gold bracelets. They were discovered in 2002 near Wrexham and the gold on the bracelets was probably Irish. Trade even in the Bronze Age linked Wales to Ireland. In the middle of the Nineteenth Century, people came over from Ireland in the aftermath of the potato famine, taking the opportunities provided by improved road and rail. Some of them stayed

We can find plenty of individual stories of the Irish link to Wrexham. Charles Herbert Murless who is buried in Wrexham Cemetery was born in Cork, ran the Wynnstay Hotel following in his father’s footsteps and was Mayor of Wrexham 1894-1896. Football also brings an Irish connection to Wrexham, with current players including James McClean, Eoghan O’Connell and Tom O’Connor to name but a few. There are also a number of Irish supporters who travel over for games.

In Welsh Affairs Select Committee recently, I raised the importance of connectivity of Wrexham to Holyhead and therefore to Ireland. This is so vital for trade but also for tourism. It has now been reported that Holyhead Port will fully reopen in July. Furthermore, last week Wales’ Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates and Irish Government Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports Sean Canney met in Dublin to discuss the resilience of the crossings between Wales and Ireland, and what more can be done to safeguard them for the future.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Careers Week gives an opportunity to focus on the many different pathways open to people at different stages in their life, to shape a career. Having done a degree in Microelectronics and software engineering, I then took my studies further by studying Hotel, Catering and Tourism Management. I worked in management positions at both Carden Park and Ruthin Castle before moving into business consultancy and accountancy. Alongside this, I volunteered in several roles for Wrexham Constituency Labour Party and still serve as a Community Councillor for Offa.

Career pathways are not always straightforward but it’s important to know that support is out there. We all probably know people who have changed careers at least once during their lives. Skills are transferrable and education is for life. People can and are doing qualifications at any age plus in our rapidly changing world, education and the jobs market is constantly adapting and needing different things from the workforce.

Sometimes young people have really defined ideas of the direction they want to take, and others have absolutely no idea. National Careers Week have a really helpful parent guide (The Parent’s Guide To NCW 2025 – National Careers Week) to help you navigate conversations with your teen about next steps. Careers Wales also have a range of resources from building a CV to different ways to find a job. Their careers quiz matches your skills and interests with potential careers. You can find more details of this on their website.  

In Wrexham, we have a number of different organisations working to support people into employment. For example, The Wallich which I visited a few weeks ago supports clients in terms of education and training to help them in their next steps. Rebuild with Hope is a charity who began with a focus on helping ex-offenders rebuild their lives by providing training, skills development, and support. Now they have broadened who they work with those who face obstacles such as long-term unemployment, disabilities, or limited access to education.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Bangor on Dee or Bangor is y Coed is synonymous with the racecourse, the river and several iconic landmarks such as the 5 arched stone bridge and the church of St Dunawd. Many of us will have visited it to see at least one of those places.

The area has a strong religious history as a monastery was built there by Saint Dunawd. Its bridge dates back to 1660 and was believed to have been designed by Inigo Jones, the famous architect and painter. It is Grade 1 listed and its origins trace back to the medieval period.

I was delighted to hold my recent constituency surgery there and to meet Community Councillors and residents at the Village Hall. A number of issues were raised ranging from broadband to litter. My casework team have also been dealing with concerns around the river and debris blocking the bridge and this case is ongoing as we pursue a resolution with CADW and Wrexham County Borough Council.

I know that broadband and mobile signal are of particular concern, which I raised with Chris Bryant, the Minister of State for Data Protection and Telecoms when we met a few weeks ago. Bangor on Dee will benefit from the Project Gigabit roll out starting this year, along with other areas of our constituency. I will continue to campaign on this issue as Bangor on Dee along with places like Rossett, Marchwiel, Brymbo amongst others are experiencing similar problems. Connectivity is key and a priority area for me.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

With St David’s Day and International Women’s Day being a week apart, I thought it would be interesting to explore Wrexham’s place in significant moments in women’s history as well as spotlighting local groups who are supporting women and girls in Wrexham today.

A natural place to start would be the campaign for the vote at the start of the last century. Emmeline Pankhurst, the suffragette leader, spoke to a large crowd on Poyser Street in January 1912 whilst another called Kitty Marion, heckled Lloyd George who would go on to be Prime Minister in WW1, during his speech at the National Eisteddfod in Bellevue Park. This was national news at the time!

Girlguiding and the Scouts welcome girls from across Wrexham to be a part of their movement equipping them with crucial transferrable skills, involving their members in social action in our community and also peer support, leading and training younger members. I met the team from We Mind the Gap last year, who provide incredible experiences for their “gappies”, some of the young women I met had hugely benefited from work experience, coaching, skills provision and other experiences that really help develop their confidence and self esteem and prepare them for life.  

We also have organisations in Wrexham, supporting women with the most challenging of situations. DASU works with anyone who has experienced domestic abuse although statistically that does mean the majority are women. It is an organisation led by women. To contact them call 0333 360 0483 or out of hours 0808 80 10 800. Furthermore, Bawso support black and minoritised individuals and communities affected by domestic abuse and other forms of abuse. They also have a 24-hour Help Line 08007318147, crisis intervention, advocacy and advice, access to statutory help and services, outreach and safe houses as well as survivor’s empowerment programmes.

It’s important to remember that not all women and girls have equality in terms of rights across the world. In Westminster recently, I met with The Maiden Factor who are a charity campaigning for the right of Afghan girls to have an education, awareness of this is so important. Furthermore, I was part of a group of MPs who called on the England and Wales Cricket Board to boycott their Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan in protest at the treatment of women and girls. I will continue to advocate for the rights of women and girls.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Wrexham’s industrial heritage is something to understand, celebrate and commemorate not just for those of us who are local but also for the increasing number of visitors to our area. 2 projects are looking at innovative ways to engage and educate visitors in the fascinating stories of how industrialisation affected Wrexham: Stori Brymbo and Wrexham Miners Project.

Wrexham Miners Project has spent six years carefully bringing half of the rescue station on Maesgwyn Road back to use. The café, museum, arts and events space and poignant memorial wall really bring mining history alive.  There’s even a “hot and humid chamber”, to give visitors an idea of what the conditions were like down the pit for the rescuers and the miners. I always learn something new each time I visit, and the volunteers who lead the tours are incredibly engaging to listen to. If you haven’t been already, it’s well worth a visit.

Stori Brymbo is due to open next year and is restoring and reusing the remains of the former Brymbo Iron and Steelworks as well as uncovering and protecting the Brymbo Fossil Forest. The project aims to fuse the stories of Brymbo’s natural, industrial and social development. It is 35 years since the Steelworks closed and there are plans to commemorate this, later in the year. I’m looking forward to visiting Stori Brymbo to see the progress being made.

What links both these fantastic projects together is the idea of connection not only with the past but to provide spaces and opportunities for their communities in the future. As a Welsh learner myself, the word “cynefin” sums up both projects beautifully as “the historic, cultural and social space which is shaped and defined by the community that inhabits it.”

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Creative industries are a growing area in Wrexham, and we also have a proud history of it too. The Grove Park Little Theatre is Wrexham’s oldest amateur theatre, tracing its history back to 1925 when the Grove Park Old Boys’ Amateur Dramatic Society was formed, later merging with the Girls’ group. Just a year later the Stiwt in Rhos opened and it’s great to see the role it’s going to play in the Wrecsam City of Culture bid for 2029. The William Aston Hall continues to attract an incredible range of musicians, theatre productions and comedians who want to include Wrexham on their tour route. This also has a knock-on effect for our hospitality venues.

Inspiration for young people to encourage them to see a future in creative industries is so important. I was delighted to visit the Wrexham Academy of Screen Acting before Christmas, where they are supporting local students who are passionate about acting. It is fantastic to have this facility in Wrexham for students to develop their skills.

Furthermore, Tŷ’r Ddraig (Dragon House) have chosen to make their home in Wrexham and have their studio in Tŷ Pawb. They are a successful production company responsible for the recently commissioned Lost in the Lakes which has achieved notable success since its first broadcast.

The Lab on Eagles Meadow was established following the success of Hip Hop Cymru, a Heritage Lottery-funded exhibition and activity programme that highlighted Wales’ contribution to Hip Hop. This is one of Wrexham’s newest venues, alongside more established ones like the Rockin’ Chair, the Parish, Saith Seren and many others. This reflects the diversity of the music offer here in Wrexham, especially as Wrexham is the home of Focus Wales. This incredible event is in its 15th year and hopes to attract more than 20,000 people to the city over the weekend of 8th-10th May.  

Growth and opportunity can take many forms and it’s wonderful to see this sector growing in Wrexham. Long may that continue.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

I thought I would focus this week’s column on Rossett, a village right on the border where I was delighted to spend time during a recent visit and constituency surgery. Many of us know Rossett from the Number 1 bus route and its historic buildings are instantly recognisable.

The beautiful mill dating from 1661 was built to mill corn for the locals and has inspired artists like JMW Turner. The Church which was not the original one on that site is also a focal point of the village. However, the area around The Green is the real centre of the village. The park has undergone a transformation in recent months with a development of a new play area for smaller children.

I was so pleased to be able to visit the Hwb Yr Orsedd and the fantastic facilities it offers for the local community. The Hwb is located at the end of The Green where an old toilet block used to stand. It has now been transformed to a great space for residents to use. The Hwb hosts the Community Café for example which provides people with an opportunity to socialise and to try out different skills. The Hwb also relies on volunteer support. It can be hired out and has many different activities taking place all week.

It was great to meet the team at BASC (British Association of Shooting and Conservation) based at Marford Mill on the edge of Rossett, to hear about their passion for the countryside and some of the challenges faced in the natural environment.

Our constituency in Wrexham is so geographically diverse from the city centre to the mining villages like Llay and the rural areas like Overton. After the boundary changes which came into force for the 2024 election, people sometimes don’t realise when they are in the Wrexham constituency and when they are not! Rossett is such an interesting mix with its link to Wrexham and Chester, the railway line but also a strong farming connection. I look forward to my next visit!

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Holocaust Memorial Day is the international day on 27th January to commemorate the Holocaust – the deliberate murder of 6 million Jews. We also commemorate the millions more people murdered through the Nazi persecution of non-Jewish groups, and in the more recent genocides recognised by the government, and in Darfur. 2025 also marks the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Bosnia. Holocaust Memorial Day is marked in thousands of communities across the country, with the UK Ceremony as the focal point, and the national moment to “Light the Darkness” which I know many of us across Wrexham will be participating in.   

So many different groups were deliberately targeted by the Nazis. The Holocaust Memorial Day Trust have curated a digital exhibition of 80 bespoke candleholders which have been designed and created by different communities across the UK to highlight a person or community who were persecuted by the Nazis, such as the Jews, the Roma, the Sinti, those who were disabled or those who were gay for example.

This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration camp and death camp complex. At the site itself in Poland, this will be the last milestone anniversary with contributions from and attended by first hand witnesses to the Holocaust.

I was incredibly humbled when I visited Auschwitz last year to see and hear the harrowing stories of what happened there. That is why I believe that Holocaust Education is so vital. The Holocaust Educational Trust’s new Testimony 360 digital education programme allows participants to combine digital eyewitness testimony with virtual reality. This is invaluable for future generations to be able to access and understand Holocaust Survivor Testimony. Education and awareness are key so that future generations can understand not only what the Holocaust was, but how it happened and its impact on millions and how it must never happen again.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Blue Monday originated from a UK travel company called Sky Travel back in 2005 who wanted to coin a phrase for the most depressing day of the year. The third Monday in January is often when people are feeling financial struggles, the weather is bleak and New Year’s Resolutions have fallen by the wayside meaning low mood and the need for support.

In our area we have lots of groups and individuals who are encouraging talk, connections and a sense of belonging in a bid to combat loneliness and depression: Andy’s Man Club, Richy’s Walk and Talk, Cwtch Life and Wrexham Mombies amongst others. In fact, I was delighted to meet with Andy’s Man Club in Parliament last month to hear about the work they are doing across the UK.

MIND the mental health charity are currently undertaking a survey to better understand peoples’ experiences of mental health support, whether that is through primary care (e.g. nurses and GPs), charities or organisations like support groups, information services as well as apps and digital platforms. You can access the survey here Big Mental Health Survey.

More locally, Advance Brighter Futures have been working in our community for over 30 years. They work to improve mental health and wellbeing with support services including one to one talking therapy, parent support groups, wellbeing groups, one to one coaching, art space, allotment group and walking group.

Dragon Chat who meet in a dedicated room at the Wrexham Miner’s Rescue is a mental health peer support group for people over 18 years old. Their aim is to provide a safe space for members of the community to talk in confidence about their mental health. They want to reduce the stigma and prevent suicide and there are separate women’s and men’s groups.

There’s lots of support out there to access whether in person, over the phone or online. Betsi Cadwaladr’s Mental Health Hub – Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board provides lots of links and suggestions. For urgent support please call 111 and select option 2.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Hospitality has been an important part of my work life before becoming your MP as well as, like many others, my social life. Therefore, when I was successful in the ballot to present a Private Members’ Bill to Parliament, a bill that would support this sector seemed an attractive choice.

The ‘Licensing Hours Extensions Bill’ is a change that I believe is well overdue for our hospitality and pub industry and one that would directly benefit businesses across England and Wales. The challenges for hospitality after COVID and a cost-of-living crisis have been immense. This will present the industry with an opportunity to open their doors for longer.

The key aspect of the Bill is to amend the Licensing Hours Act 2003. This would simplify the process of extending licensing hours for venues on occasions of exceptional international, national, or local significance. These occasions could range from Wales or England reaching the latter stages of a major sporting tournament to royal weddings and days of national importance.

For example, when the Lionesses reached the final of the World Cup in August 2023, Parliament was in recess which meant that pubs, bars, and other hospitality venues could not serve alcohol until the second half and some premises could not even open at all.  

Furthermore, last year the Belonging Forum, a non-profit organisation that looks at solutions to stop social isolation and foster belonging, undertook a study of over 10,000 people across the UK. They found, people feel disconnected and isolated from their communities and neighbourhoods, with pubs and bars forming a crucial part of community life and hubs where people can come to. Many of us can identify places like that in our own area.

The Bill will go for its second reading on 17th January.

Wrexham Public Art Trail continues to grow and there are now a number of different murals across our city for locals and visitors to enjoy. They really showcase the diversity, creativity and talent that we have in Wrexham and highlight our wonderful culture and heritage. This project is part of the Wrecsam 2029 bid for City of Culture. I look forward to seeing how this fantastic work develops over the coming months.

If any constituents need help or advice then please email my office [email protected]  or by telephone on 01978 788854.

Hospitality has been an important part of my work life before becoming your MP as well as, like many others, my social life. Therefore, when I was successful in the ballot to present a Private Members’ Bill to Parliament, a bill that would support this sector seemed an attractive choice.

The ‘Licensing Hours Extensions Bill’ is a change that I believe is well overdue for our hospitality and pub industry and one that would directly benefit businesses across England and Wales. The challenges for hospitality after COVID and a cost-of-living crisis have been immense. This will present the industry with an opportunity to open their doors for longer.

The key aspect of the Bill is to amend the Licensing Hours Act 2003. This would simplify the process of extending licensing hours for venues on occasions of exceptional international, national, or local significance. These occasions could range from Wales or England reaching the latter stages of a major sporting tournament to royal weddings and days of national importance.

For example, when the Lionesses reached the final of the World Cup in August 2023, Parliament was in recess which meant that pubs, bars, and other hospitality venues could not serve alcohol until the second half and some premises could not even open at all.  

Furthermore, last year the Belonging Forum, a non-profit organisation that looks at solutions to stop social isolation and foster belonging, undertook a study of over 10,000 people across the UK. They found, people feel disconnected and isolated from their communities and neighbourhoods, with pubs and bars forming a crucial part of community life and hubs where people can come to. Many of us can identify places like that in our own area.

The Bill will go for its second reading on 17th January.

Wrexham Public Art Trail continues to grow and there are now a number of different murals across our city for locals and visitors to enjoy. They really showcase the diversity, creativity and talent that we have in Wrexham and highlight our wonderful culture and heritage. This project is part of the Wrecsam 2029 bid for City of Culture. I look forward to seeing how this fantastic work develops over the coming months.

If any constituents need help or advice then please email my office [email protected]  or by telephone on 01978 788854.

The New Year has arrived and for some of us that means resolutions: getting active, improving diets or taking on new hobbies. However, for many, it can mean facing the reality of debt.

A You Gov poll in December found that 1 in 4 people in the UK (about 14.5 million people) would struggle to afford Christmas which is a rise of 1.6 million people since last year. This has led people to rely on credit cards and Buy Now Pay Later schemes in order to afford gifts and other festive activities.

There is support out there for anyone in Wrexham who needs advice on how to manage debt. Step Change is the UK’s leading debt advice charity who support millions in financial difficulty across the UK. The Better Off Calculator Better Off Calculator – Policy in Practice which is free to use, can look at your household budget, benefit eligibility and how employment can help your financial situation. The Citizens’ Advice Bureau have dedicated debt advisers and a comprehensive service to support you to deal with debt, to find solutions and to budget.  

Before Christmas, I attended an event in Parliament led by Step Change to hear about what they are doing in communities like ours to support those in financial difficulty. I look forward to continuing to work with them, along with other local organisations to ensure that help is reaching those that need it.  

There are 2 weeks remaining for the Wrexham County Borough consultation on the future of our libraries and community resource centres. You can fill in the consultation online here and the consultation ends on the 19th January. Please take time to complete this so that as many voices are heard as possible. Our libraries and community resource centres provide connections, services and support for everyone, whatever their age. As a Community Councillor in Offa, I have seen first hand how important the community resource centre has been to local residents and it is something that I have utilised myself.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or [email protected]

Last week was Small Business Saturday, when we recognise and celebrate the small businesses in our communities. As we approach the busiest shopping time of the year on the lead up to Christmas, I have been thinking about the fantastic businesses we have here in Wrexham, such as Reggie’s Artisanal Bakery, Wrexham Trainer Revival, Toast Café and Deli, Chevron Clothing, The Bank, Martin Rees Jewellery and many more. As someone who started my career in small business, I know first-hand how important small businesses are to our communities.

Despite a stormy day, I enjoyed getting out at the weekend and being able to see the fantastic reopened markets, which is testament to the hard work done by Wrexham County Borough Council in the past few years. The traders have a wonderful selection of products and I was given a warm welcome by them.

I’m also under no illusions about the challenges businesses have faced over the past few years, and that many of the challenges faced then are still present now. I’m glad that both in Cardiff and Westminster, the Governments are firmly listening and on the side of small businesses, it is my hope that measures such as the £130 million of additional non-domestic rates support, coinciding with the already existing small business rates relief, can provide business in Wrexham with the stability it needs to succeed.

Recently, I was glad to be able to join the Have your Say roadshow at Wrexham Library. The consultation on our libraries and resource centres is still ongoing. As I’ve expressed previously, I feel strongly that our libraries and resource centres are at the heart of our communities and need support and preserving. Libraries are not just places to pick up books, they are warm hubs during the winter, space for community groups to meet, they provide IT equipment for those who might be digitally excluded otherwise and support both children and adults.

I am aware of the challenges that Wrexham County Borough Council are facing, after pressure felt across the UK due to the poor economic climate in recent years but I do not feel that changes to our vital services are the way to go. Once we lose services such as libraries, it is almost impossible to revive them at a later date, with a much larger cost in the long term. The Welsh Government budget will be announced shortly, with the biggest settlement for Wales since devolution began. I look forward to seeing what WCBC will be awarded after that.

 I would urge everyone to have their say during the consultation, which you can do here or via a paper form, or at one of the Have your Say roadshows taking place at each library.

Finally, I have to say thank you to our emergency services and council workers during Storm Darragh. The storm was one of the most intense in recent months and caused damage to buildings, left some places flooded and in the wider UK, people without power. Our emergency services and council workers kept people safe and worked tirelessly to bring back normality as quickly as possible.

This week marks White Ribbon Day 2024. I have been proud to be a White Ribbon Ambassador for several years.

White Ribbon UK is the leading charity that engages men and boys to end violence against women and girls. White Ribbon focuses on preventative changes to harmful cultures, attitudes and behaviours.

As men, we need to recognise that preventing violence against women and girls starts with men. Violence is often rooted in harmful masculine traits. By challenging each other’s attitudes and behaviours that are harmful to women, we can affect positive change that will transform culture. Gender equality is key to making this happen and recognising our responsibility as allies.

It is vital that change starts to happen. 70% of women in the UK say they have experienced sexual harassment in public, 3 in 5 women have experiences sexual harassment, bullying or verbal abuse at work and 1.4 million women experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2023.

I am proud to wear my White Ribbon badge in Parliament. The Labour Party manifesto pledged to halve violence against women and girls, and I was delighted to see the first actions announced by the Home Secretary such as embedding domestic abuse specialists in 999 control rooms, new domestic abuse protection orders and tougher sanctions if these are breached. There will also be a focus on supporting schools and education centres on teaching children about healthy relationships, respect and consent.

Recently, I joined Fast Track Cymru at their conference at the Stok Cae Ras and listened to their vital work in how to reduce stigma on HIV. People who are diagnosed with HIV can live as long and as healthily as anyone else, however early diagnosis is vital so that treatment can be started as soon as possible.

Last week was Wales HIV Test Week which encourages everyone to get tested. Together, we can help stop HIV in its tracks by getting tested. Anyone in Wales can order a free, confidential home test which you can order here.

Finally, I am delighted to see the return of the Wrexham Victorian Christmas Markets along with the long-awaited reopening of the refurbished Butchers Market and General Market. Wrexham has a long history of being a market town and I am looking forward to visiting the markets as we get into the festive season.

This week, Wrexham County Borough Council has launched a public consultation on the future of Wrexham’s libraires and community resource centres.

The council have said that they need to make £185,000 in cuts to the libraries after reduced funding over the past decade, along with increased need for support from residents and rising inflation.

Our libraries and community centres are an integral part of our communities. They encourage our children to fall in love with reading with a wide selection of books for them to choose from. There are challenges and groups that make reading fun for them.

The vital Homelink service is a lifeline for people who are homebound and have no-one to pick up books on their behalf. It means that those people can still enjoy their hobbies, whether that is reading fiction or studying different topics.

Libraries help with older people by tacking digital exclusion by providing free WiFi, printing services and photocopying along with groups that can teach digital skills to ensure that people feel confident in a more digital world.

There are many events that take place in our libraries and community centres such as the annual Carnival of Worlds that celebrated 10 years in 2024. There are also well attended regular meet the author events, annual back to school sessions to gently encourage children on the transition to full time education.

They are also places where different groups can meet, from knitting and natter groups, Welsh language sessions for children, sports discussions, friendship groups, scrabble clubs and much more. These are often lifelines for people who may not have any other social outlet which prevents them feeling isolated.

You can have your say several ways on the proposed cuts over the next couple of months. You can fill in the consultation online here. You can also pick up a paper copy at any library or community centre if you prefer.

There are several ‘Have your Say’ roadshows taking place at each library over the coming weeks so you can attend in person and discuss your views. The consultation ends on the 19th January 2025.

I was delighted to hear that the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct could become the first Welsh landmark in the Lego collection, joining only 4 other UK locations.

The 6 foot Lego model of the Aqueduct is currently on display in Ty Pawb for people to visit and there is a online campaign to get the 10,000 votes needed for Lego to consider adding the Aqueduct to it’s set collection. You can vote here

Wrexham of course has historic links with Lego, with the world-famous bricks being produced in a factory on the Industrial Estate and later being distributed from a site on Ruthin Road. It feels therefore very fitting that the first Welsh potential addition to the Lego collection is the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

Last week, I was contacted by a concerned constituent who had concerns over a man who seemed to be homeless, along with his dog. The next day, whilst I was in Parliament, my constituency team went out to try to find the man. They did find him and listened to his concerns on being told by Wrexham Council that he could not be housed due to his dog. I did some research and found that homeless people can be homed with their dogs, and we found some options that would mean he would not be separated from his dog.   

Over the next few days, working with the Council’s Housing Solutions Team, my office staff kept in touch with the man, checked on his welfare and provided hot drinks and food. I was then delighted to hear that he has been housed and is now in accommodation.

Whilst my team did a fantastic job, what struck me most was what they told me about the Wrexham residents they spoke to whilst working with the man who was homeless. Dozens of people knew the man and came over to have a chat and a joke with him, give him hot drinks, provide food and treats for his dog, who seems to be a sort of local celebrity!

It truly shows the best of Wrexham, and it isn’t a surprise. This community has always looked after each other and it is why I am proud to live here, be part of the community and represent our incredible city in Parliament. I would especially like to thank the resident who contacted me initially, without your care towards the man, we would not have been able to assist him and his dog.

If you have any concerns over a person you suspect to be homeless, the Council’s Housing Solutions Team are available 24 hours a day and can be contacted on 01978 292947 or you can use the Streetlink website to send an alert to them. There are several fantastic hostels and options in Wrexham such as the Wallich, which does incredible work housing the homeless community and facilitating meetings with external support services.

As the weather gets colder, Wrexham Council have the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol which has measures in place to support people sleeping rough during severe cold weather.

Next week is UK Parliament Week for schools, youth organisations and charities. UK Parliament Week is an annual event to encourage children and young people to learn more about Parliament, what it does, and how they can get involved. Last year 1.6 million people got involved across Wales and the wider UK.

I was pleased to learn how many groups across Wrexham have signed up, with many events such as debates, petitions, school assemblies and much more. I will be joining a group next weekend, alongside other elected representatives to discuss Parliament and how it works and have a debate. As ever, if you require assistance or if you have any concerns you wish to discuss, please do not hesitate to contact me on [email protected]

Last week, we had the first budget from a UK Labour Government in 15 years, and the first ever budget from a female chancellor.

The UK Labour Government was elected on a manifesto of change in July and the budget is the start of that change to fix the foundations of our economy, begin to fix our public services, make work pay and ensure that everyone is better off.

We could not carry on with the same old failed policies that defined the past 14 years of the Conservative government, which left the people of Wrexham facing a huge cost of living crisis and our vital public services facing breaking point.

I was delighted to hear from the Chancellor that the National Minimum Wage will rise by 6.7%, meaning an increase of £1,400 for workers on the lowest wages, meaning more money in the pockets of nearly 2500 people here in Wrexham, at a time when bills, mortgages and rents are at a high.

The Chancellor announced the biggest real terms settlement for Wales since devolution with a £21billion settlement announced for 2025/2026 including £1.7billion of consequentials. This clearly shows that two Labour governments working together will deliver real change for Wrexham and across Wales.

The Labour manifesto promised that working people will not see tax rises in their pay slips with no rises in National Insurance, no rise in basic, higher or additional income tax and no rise in VAT, and this has been delivered.

The Long-Term Plan for Towns will be retained, which is fantastic news for Wrexham as one of the 75 places that is set to gain from the programme. I look forward to seeing further news in the coming months.

After a difficult 5 years, it is fantastic to see investment into Wrexham in recent weeks with announcements from Kellenova, Wrexham AFC and Wrexham Lager. The future is looking bright.

This weekend sees the annual Remembrance Sunday service when we as a country pay tribute to the servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. It is always a solemn and humbling experience, and this weekend will be no different. We will also commemorate their memory in Parliament with a two-minute silence in the chamber of the House of Commons on the 11th November.

I also be planting a tribute on behalf of the people of Wrexham in the Constituency Garden of Remembrance in New Palace Yard. The Garden was opened by the Speaker of the House of Commons, and I am honoured to plant the Remembrance Tribute in memory of the people who fought for their country.

Lest We Forget.

Last week, I was delighted to see the Employment Rights Bill pass its second reading in Parliament. The new laws are the biggest upgrade in employee rights in decades. The bill will mean that employees have rights such as sick pay, flexible working requests and protection from unfair dismissal from day one of employment rather than have to wait to qualify.

The bill also bans exploitive zero-hour contracts, with employers being required to offer workers a guaranteed-hours contract based on the hours worked over a 12-week period. Workers can still opt to keep a zero-hour contract if they wish to, the difference being that they are entitled to a guaranteed-hours contract. Workers on zero-hours contract will also be entitled to compensation if a shift is cancelled or cut short.

One of the biggest parts of the bill is the banning of fire and rehire. This will stop the unethical practice of employers dismissing their workers and hiring them back on worse terms and conditions. We have seen this in recent years with P&O most notably and currently here in Wrexham, with workers at Oscar Mayer in dispute over the practice. I reiterate my call to Oscar Mayer to sit down with their workers and come to a solution that is fair and equitable to all parties.

Halloween is this week and I hope that everyone enjoys it safely. In Wrexham, there are a lot of events over the half term holidays for families to enjoy, from Halloween Crafts at Brynteg Library, Halloween Fun Day at Alyn Waters, Spooky Snacks at the Wellbeing Hub to The Big Wrexham Halloween Spookfast run by Wrexham Street Market. For the adults, there is the always popular Wretched Wrexham Walking Tour that runs into November. More activities can be found here

My constituency team have now all started work and are busy speaking to residents and assisting with issues. If you require any help or if you wish to raise any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected].

Last week, the Wrexham City Board held it’s first Wrexfactor event which was attended by over 160 people from around the community. The Wrexham City Board was set up in March 2024 to be an apolitical body bringing together representatives of Wrexham networks, businesses and community groups to work together to make Wrexham a better place.

The Wrexfactor was held at the Stok Cae Ras and had a diverse attendance, with people representing all sectors of Wrexham, from businesses, charities, organisations, community groups, youth workers to police and public services.

The event was aimed at speaking to the Wrexham community and hearing what suggestions and ideas they have to improve the town centre. Hundreds of ideas were brought across with each and every one being documented, and the City Board will be releasing a report that is open and available to everyone to read.

I was able to attend The Wrexfactor and I could see first hand how much passion and ambition that there is for Wrexham. The pride in our city was palpable whilst also wanting to make the most of the platform we currently have and improve the town centre for the future generations to come.

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who participated and brought forward their ideas on how to make Wrexham a better place. Wrexham AFC very generously hosted the event at Stok Cae Ras and it was also sponsored by local businesses such as Moneypenny and Wrexham Lager.

Wrexham and Canada have historic links going back to WW1 when young Canadian troops were based close by, as was the case again during WW2. Sadly, several Airmen died in a training accident in WW2 and were laid to rest here in Wrexham. On Sunday prior to the Terry Fox Run, I joined The High Commissioner of Canada along with representatives from the RAF, the Canadian Air Force and the Lady Mayor to lay wreaths at their graves. It was incredibly touching to think back to their sacrifice and to honour their memory.

On Sunday, I was delighted to attend the first Terry Fox Run held in Wales, which was held here in Wrexham. It was opened by the High Commissioner of Canada, The Hon Ralph Goodale and before the race started, we had the honour of hearing from Fred Fox, Terry’s brother, who spoke about his brother’s determination, positive spirit and ambition to see cancer be eradicated across the world.

The event was a free to enter, non-competitive walk, run or cycle 5k around Bellevue Park. It was truly uplifting to see so many people gather and carry on raising money for the Institute of Cancer Research, who do fantastic work here in the UK and have truly made a difference to people living with cancer. I look forward to the Terry Fox Run coming back to Wrexham in 2025 and will join it again then.

If you wish to donate to the Terry Fox Run event, you can do on The Terry Fox Run – Wrexham, Wales – JustGiving.

As ever, if you require any assistance or you have any concerns you wish to speak to me about, please contact me on [email protected].

As a child, I can remember watching Terry Fox on television as he attempted to run the length of Canada to raise money for cancer research after having his leg amputated due to osteosarcoma.

I felt truly inspired by his attitude, positive outlook and determination. This quote from Terry Fox resonated with me then and has remained with me since: “I just wish people would realize that anything’s possible if you try, dreams are made if people try.” Despite having to run through bone bruises, cysts on his stump and intense pain, he captured the imagination of the world and ran over 3,339 miles.

Terry unfortunately had to stop running before he completed his goal of running the length of Canada and raising 24 million dollars as his cancer had returned and spread to his lungs. Since his death in 1981, over 850 million dollars has been raised in his name.

This Sunday, Wrexham will host the first ever Terry Fox Run held in Wales. The run will take place in Bellevue Park, it is free to enter, non-competitive and open to all. You can walk, run or cycle either 2.5km or 5km with the goal being to raise funds for cancer research for The Institute for Cancer Research. You can find more details here

Last week, I was delighted to join the First Minister, Eluned Morgan and Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales at the Kellogg’s factory in Wrexham as Kellenova, Kellogg’s parent company announced that they were investing £75 million into the Wrexham factory. This investment means that the capacity of the factory will double, making it the largest cereals manufacturing plant in Europe.

Over 130 jobs will be created because of this investment in addition to the 350 people currently employed by Kellogg’s at the Wrexham factory. One of Wrexham’s biggest assets is it’s skilled workforce and it is fantastic to see Kellenova’s confidence in our people and the local area as a place to do business. The sustainable practices also announced by Kellenova will help as we move to a greener future and a stronger environment.

As ever, should you require any help or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me or my team on [email protected].

As a long-time supporter of the Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaign, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication and resilience of all those involved. I recently had the opportunity to meet with WASPI campaigners both at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool last week and in Parliament at the start of September. These meetings reinforced my understanding of the profound impact pension changes have had on their lives.

In recent years, the WASPI campaign has gained significant attention in the UK. Founded in 2015, WASPI represents women born in the 1950s who have been adversely affected by previous government’s decision to equalize the state pension age for men and women. This change, while aimed at addressing gender inequality, has left many women facing unexpected financial hardship.

The crux of the issue lies in the way the changes were implemented. Many women received little to no notice about the increase in their state pension age, which shifted from 60 to 65, and eventually to 66. This abrupt change left them with insufficient time to adjust their retirement plans, resulting in financial instability for many.

WASPI campaigners argue that the government failed to adequately communicate these changes, leaving millions of women unprepared for the financial impact. They are not against the equalization of the pension age but are calling for fair compensation for the lack of notice and the resulting financial losses.

Policy changes by previous Tory governments have played a significant role in this issue. The Pensions Act 1995 included provisions to increase the state pension age for women from 60 to 65 in stages between April 2010 and 2020. Further changes were introduced under the Pensions Act 2011, which accelerated the equalization of women’s state pension age and brought forward the increase in the state pension age to 66 by 2020.

An investigation by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) has found that there was maladministration in the way the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) communicated the changes to the state pension age. The PHSO has recommended compensation for the typical impacted woman to be between £1,000 and £2,950.

The financial implications of compensating WASPI women are significant, with estimates suggesting a potential cost of £10 billion. However, campaigners argue that this is a necessary step to rectify the injustice faced by these women. They believe that the government should take responsibility for the inadequate communication and provide fair compensation to those affected.

The women of WASPI are not just fighting for compensation; they are fighting for recognition of the hardships they have endured and for justice to be served. I am pleased that the new Labour Pensions Minister has met with the WASPI campaign—the first pensions minister to do so. I will continue to support the campaign and encourage the new government to act as quickly as possible on the PHSO report findings and put a plan in place as soon as possible to address this injustice.

Last week I held the first of several planned constituency surgeries for pensioners, in association with Wrexham Citizen’s Advice Bureau – where we were able to give assistance to help people access the range of support that is available to them. Thank you to those that attended and for discussing your concerns with me. I will be holding further such surgeries over coming weeks, if you wish to attend, please contact my office at [email protected] Finally, I am pleased to report that the first members of the constituency office team have now commenced their roles, with more to join later this month. We have also just received the keys to the new constituency office in the centre of Wrexham – once it is set up, we will communicate details of how to book appointments for assistance. I, and the team, are looking forward to being able to help more constituents across Wrexham.

Dementia is a growing health and care issue in the UK as the number of people affected by the condition is increasing as the population ages. There are currently an estimated 1million people living with dementia in the UK and this is predicted to rise to 1.4million by 2040.

There are an estimated 540,000 carers of people with dementia in the UK and it is estimated that 1 in 3 of us will care for a person with dementia in our lifetime.

Older people are mainly affected by dementia with the likelihood of developing the condition roughly doubling every 5 years after the age of 65. However, some people can develop dementia earlier.

Dementia is an awful condition that doesn’t just cause memory loss, it can change the way you speak, think, feel and behave. People with dementia can lose interest in their usual activities and may have problems managing their emotions or behaviour. They may find social situations difficult and lose interest in relationships and socialising.  Other symptoms can include difficulty with daily tasks, language and communication issues, mood changes, difficulty with concentration and confusion.

A couple of weeks ago I attended Wrexham Walk for Dementia, organised by the fantastic team at Dementia Friendly Wrexham. 

Dementia Friendly Wrexham is an incredible local organisation that has the aim of making Wrexham an inclusive, dementia-friendly community. They form part of the North Wales Dementia Friendly Communities scheme that supports businesses, community groups and individuals in becoming dementia-friendly.

They can run information sessions for businesses and community groups that will improve people’s understanding of dementia and it’s effects. All sessions are interactive and can be tailored to all ages, they can run adapted sessions for primary school children.

Dementia Friendly Wrexham also run a programme of brilliant events throughout each month, designed for people with dementia. They include art classes, singing sessions, movement exercise classes, coffee mornings and support groups. There are also sessions aimed at carers. You can find details here.

I was also lucky enough to attend the Refugee Kindness Celebration at Parciau last week. Refugee Kindness was set up in 2020 to relieve poverty or financial hardship amongst refugees in North Wales.

They support families by turning houses into homes through their Facebook group which acts as a free marketplace. They also befriend their beneficiaries, set up events to help people meet other families in the area which reduces isolation and combats mental health issues.

You can find out more about the great work they do here

Over the next few weeks, I will be joining more local organisations at events they have planned across Wrexham. I look forward to learning more about how each organisation works and listening to different perspectives and viewpoints from across Wrexham.

If you have an event coming up or if you want to invite me to learn more about your organisation, please get in contact with me at [email protected].

This week we approach the 90th anniversary of the Gresford Disaster when 266 men lost their lives in one of Wrexham’s worst tragedies. It affected the whole of Wrexham with nearly every village in the borough losing someone. The mining industry continues to shape Wrexham to this day and there are some fantastic events to commemorate the men who lost their lives this weekend.  On Saturday the 21st there is a candle lighting vigil at the Miners Rescue Station with a candle lit for each man who lost their lives. They will be extinguished at 2.08 am on the 22nd September. There is also a service of remembrance at the Gresford Colliery Memorial at 11am, as well as at All Saints Church in Gresford at 5pm. You can see what other events are happening here: Events taking place in Wrexham to mark Gresford Disaster | The Leader (leaderlive.co.uk). I look forward to joining some of the events across this week to honour the anniversary.

The Wrexham Miners Project is based at the Miners Rescue Station and it is an incredible cause. I was lucky enough to spend some time there in June and was blown away by the museum and the educational hub – the food is also lovely! Wrexham AFC’s Executive Director, Humphrey Ker, recently announced that he is running the Manchester Marathon to raise the funds needed to help restore the building and fund the great activities the project does with the community. You can donate here WREXHAM AFC x THE WREXHAM MINERS PROJECT – JustGiving.

The First Minister recently announced pay rises for public sector workers in Wales which was fantastic to see. Teachers, dentists, doctors and civil servants will be receiving pay rises for the year 2024-2025. Our public services are the backbone of our society and seeing them rewarded shows how much they are valued as we all rely on these vital services.

Finally, I will be holding a surgery on the 28th September in association with the Citizen’s Advice Bureau to assist people with claiming pension credits or any other benefits they may be entitled to. If you wish to book an appointment to come along, please contact [email protected] and my office will book you a slot.

As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on the email address above.