Jonathan Djanogly MP shares his Christmas message

After an amazing, exciting, sometimes frustrating but ever fascinating 22 years as local MP, I shall be picking up stumps at the next election.

Over that period. things have developed greatly in Huntingdonshire, mainly I think for the better.

Average earnings have significantly improved, local education has improved, primary care remains strong and our once at-risk hospital is now secured for the future.

The local quality of life remains high; Huntingdonshire is a great place to live and bring up a family and there is work for just about everyone.

Looking back, there are many things that I have been proud to have helped locally. With a growing local population itself indicative of a successful local economy, the development of local infrastructure has always been a priority.

The new train station in Huntingdon, the new A14 road and, coming soon, the dualling of the A428 and redesigned Black Cat roundabout. All of these have and will significantly improve the area for residents.

Perhaps the greatest local infrastructure improvements over the last two decades have been the flood defences for St. Neots (Paddocks), Godmanchester, St. Ives and the Hemingfords. These measures will have saved thousands from the misery of flooding that has plagued this area for centuries.

Nationally, I would point out that it is easy to criticise government policy but, looking at the horror of what is going on in so many other parts of the world, the UK still remains a great place to live.

So, whilst it is certainly the case that we need to control immigration to the UK, we also need to appreciate that what we enjoy here is what makes people want to come here.

For most of us, a recent highlight will have been the coronation of our new monarch. Again, a reminder of what makes the UK so special.

For me, it will be business as usual until the next election and then on to the next challenge, holding the happiest memories of my time as your Member of Parliament.

Rebecca and I wish all readers a very happy Christmas and New Year.