The Jubilee weekend was a triumph for the monarchy and our wonderful Queen, especially to bring our communities together in celebration both of the immense service of Her Majesty to our country and the Commonwealth, but also of everything that makes our country so great.

In a few days’ time, Her Majesty will become the second longest reigning monarch in recorded history.

But she has already earned her place in the history books, not just because of the unprecedented acceleration of change that has occurred in the last 70 years, but by the deep and sincere respect and affection she commands across the world.

I wish to pay tribute both to our wonderful Queen and also the communities and volunteers across west Dorset and everywhere else who have put such an effort into these events and festivities that have made the vast majority of us united and proud to be British.

Anti-social behaviour has been a blight on the lives of many people across west Dorset. It is therefore good to see Dorset Police leading the charge against this through Operation Relentless, a scheme aimed at cracking down on anti-social behaviour. Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick has recently announced a new Operation Relentless Community Fund that welcomes applications for grants in between £100 and £5,000.

This new fund aims to support community organisations, projects or initiatives with a local focus that aims to tackle the issue of anti-social behaviour.

I very much support this scheme and will be happy to help with any bids if my assistance is ever required.

I wish to make a special note of the memorial service for Rupert Best, who passed away in February last year. For a man who contributed so much to west Dorset and the nation, through agriculture, business or his distinguished Naval career. I hope this week’s memorial service provides the full, hearty celebration of a colourful, accomplished life that he deserves.

CHRIS LODER

WEST DORSET MP