I do not think I will ever forget the very moving scenes from HM The Queen's funeral. Like the majority of people I watched the proceedings at home, reflecting on the life of service and duty that Her Majesty dedicated to her country. But the ceremony at St George's Windsor, with the procession passing both Emma the Fell pony and the corgis somehow felt more personal, with a family mourning a mother, grandmother and great grandmother.
On the eve of the funeral Romsey Abbey held a service which included the national moment of reflection, and it felt an appropriate way for the community to come together to express their thanks to a Monarch who had undoubtedly kept her promise to the nation.
With the period of National Mourning over Parliament has met again to resume business, with the statement on Wednesday regarding support to businesses on energy prices and the fiscal event from the Chancellor expected on Friday. There can be no doubt the Prime Minister has had a challenging start to her time in office, and there is understandably a measure of anxiety as to whether the financial measures being put in place will deliver the results we need.
There is a lot coming up in the constituency this weekend, not least the Rotary Walk the Test Way, I am very sorry not to be participating this year, but weirdly having my arm in a sling has really impeded my ability to walk at any pace and distance. But the weather forecast looks good for all those who are taking part and I know they will all enjoy being out in the beautiful Test Valley.
