I campaigned and voted to leave the EU, and we must leave properly. The Prime Minister’s Brexit proposals risk leaving the U.K. trapped as a rule-taker from Brussels, needing the EU’s permission to escape the “backstop”. I believe this would be an historic mistake.

The breaking news that Tees Valley Mayor, Ben Houchen, has agreed a deal to rescue our airport is amazing, and I know will be hugely welcomed across our constituency.

Ben made a promise to buy Durham Tees Valley airport and he has delivered.

On 14 November, the Government published the proposed Withdrawal Agreement with the EU alongside a short political declaration on the future UK-EU relationship. 

The huge breaking news about the multi-billion pound clean gas energy plant coming to our area is absolutely amazing, and will give lift off to the local economy. If you haven't seen it yet, you can read more about the exciting announcement here.

The King's Academy in Coulby Newham is a great school and I visited to meet inspirational headteacher Mr Dawes, who brings huge experience both as a school leader and also from his former life in business and in the Army.

Helping young people find a proper home is a huge priority and we are really lucky to have the East Cleveland Youth Housing Trust working so hard in our area.

We had a lovely evening last night supporting the Pink Ladies of East Cleveland at their fundraising ball at Gisborough Hall.

Working in Westminster, it's not every day you are joined by a supermodel, but it was a delight to be joined by Lily Cole as I hosted a reception to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Climate Change Act.

I have been delighted by the response to this year's Christmas Card competition and have received lot of fabulous festive entries. Talented young artists from primary schools across Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland have made my job of judging the designs very difficult!

I am very clear more needs to be done to tackle crime across our constituency. I met the Home Secretary, Sajid Javid, to make this point forcefully yesterday. I told him about the depth of concern that is felt in our communities and said it is my number one domestic policy priority.