Last week the pageantry of the Queen’s Speech took place safely in the midst of intense security. It was incongruous to see the stark concrete blocks obstructing vehicular access to the Palace of Westminster contrasted with the splendour of the traditional robes and gowns worn by official participants. I wonder if there should be a compromise between modernity and tradition. As an MP I was relieved not to have to dress up and was again amazed by the brilliance of the jewels in the Queen’s Crown.

The Queen’s Speech was only surprising for its omissions but was constructed to give the opportunity for other legislation to be added during the session.

I had a bad weekend on the railways suffering three unannounced train cancellations, two by Central Trains and one by Virgin Railways. My journey home took five hours instead of three and returning to London, four and a half hours. I have said before, to cancel a train just because a crew member is late on duty whatever the cause is inexcusable.

I enjoyed the annual Christmas lunch for Hospital League of Friends’ helpers. More than 130 people were present. The maintenance of this number of helpers proves that the support for our hospital is still there. Here is a splendid group of dedicated people who have amassed a reserve of funds ready and waiting to assist the planned return of desperately needed services to our hospital that could be delayed by shortage of money in the county’s health services, the very shortage that hospital changes were supposed to address!

Despite rain the Mayor of Bewdley’s ceremony to switch on the Christmas lights was a great success. I was amazed by the number of people who turned out on this wet evening to listen to the band and singers, to visit the Christmas market and to see Santa permanently stuck in his chimney. At least his lower half would have remained dry.

I attended a meeting with the Princes’ Trust to hear about the success of the XL Clubs for young people in schools. These dramatically improve attendance, achievements and self confidence of the students involved.

At another meeting Severn Trent Water told us reservoirs are only about 60% full when at this time of year they should be at more than 80% of capacity. Despite the rain now we still must be careful with water.

A meeting of the Waterways Group which was attended by about 100 delegates from all over the country was addressed by Alun Michael, MP, Minister of State for Rural Affairs with responsibility for inland waterways. He answered wide-ranging questions and impressed us with his knowledge and enthusiasm for inland waterways. I hope he is allowed to remain in his post with its wide ranging responsibilities for a long time to come.