I HAVE enjoyed a busy first week back in Parliament after the summer recess, and had a particularly hectic and enjoyable weekend back in the constituency, writes Redditch MP Karen Lumley.

First of all, as part of my continuing efforts to help support the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust through challenging times, I have been busy organising a promised public meeting at Redditch Town Hall to allow members of the public to ask questions about current plans for the Alexandra Hospital.

This will take place on September 28 and will be jointly chaired by myself and leader of Redditch Borough Council Bill Hartnett, and attended by hospital management and senior clinicians.

The meeting starts at 7pm and those wanting to attend can just turn up.

On Friday I also met newly-appointed chairman of the hospital trust Caragh Merrick and spoke to her about her plans and aspirations for the trust and of course about the current restructuring programme.

She will also be at the public meeting, but I was very impressed with her genuine desire to engage with key stakeholders at all levels.

Also on Friday I met with members of new action group, Bromsgrove and Redditch Against Fracking, to hear of their concerns about the effects of shale gas extraction on public health, a concern which I share.

I also met with managers from NatWest Bank about some of the community work that they are committed to, and with a number of constituents about their individual concerns.

On Saturday I attended the opening of Nash’s Acre, a scouting activity and nature facility in Astwood Bank, and I also went to see Redditch United play against Slough.

I am a regular visitor to the Valley Stadium and the newly revamped pitch looks stunning. I recommend paying a visit to support your local team.

Then on Sunday I had the honour of starting the Colour Run at Arrow Valley Country Park in aid of Sight Concern Worcestershire.

This is always such fun and all in a great cause.

As ever, to keep up to date with what I am doing, visit tellkaren.com or follow facebook.com/Karen4RedditchCounty.