Last Sunday, it was a pleasure to have joined the Bridport Torchlight Procession alongside Mayor Ian Bark and Town Crier John Collingwood.

The Bridport Torchlight has become an integral part of Bridport’s Carnival weekend. It raises much needed funds for charity and is one of the highlights of West Dorset’s social calendar.

I was shocked to learn earlier this year that this procession was at risk of being cancelled due to a highways contractor refusing to continue their assistance in operating the closure of the A35 Crown Roundabout.

After 2 years of postponement, another cancellation was not something I would accept, so was determined to sort this out. Following a virtual summit with Dorset and Bridport Town Council, the Bridport Carnival Committee and National Highways to formulate a plan of action. We were able to source a new contracting company that was willing to operate the closure, thus fitting the final but crucial piece of the jigsaw.

When walking along in the procession on Sunday evening, the sheer numbers of people not just participating, but watching the procession follow through the town was incredible! I spoke to one person who had come as far as Crewkerne!

I would like to congratulate the Bridport Carnival Committee for organising a wonderful carnival and procession, which of course culminated with a stunning firework display at West Bay.

The Number 6 Bus between Bridport and Crewkerne via Beaminster has come under renewed uncertainty in recent weeks. One of the first major campaigns I was involved in as an MP was preventing the cancellation of the Number 6, and now that same effort is being applied again. I attended an emergency meeting with Beaminster Town Council last Tuesday and I will continue to do all that I can to expedite a solution to this.

CHRIS LODER

WEST DORSET MP