Today, I embarked on my first official duties - opening The Dittons Fair, which is celebrating the centenary of the local Scouts Group.

We talked a lot in the election campaign about promoting the 'Big Society' - strengthening the family, promoting community spirit and providing more positive activities for young people. Nothing captures that better than the Dittons Fair, a tremendous fund-raising exercise, an impressive feat of logistical organisation and a testament to our strong local community spirit. My thanks to Suzan Baker for the invitation, and to all those who helped out to make it such a fun occasion.