Tomorrow a cross-government policy sprint, led by DCMS, comes to Blackpool, to develop a strategic approach to regional growth and place-based regeneration through our visitor economy.

This Friday, hours before the Illuminations switched on for the season, I got to attend a smaller  switch on – the lights went back on inside Counselling in the Community’s South Shore Hub.

Today I was proud to welcome Tourism Minister Stephanie Peacock to Blackpool. We had some great conversations and also got to experience the Pleasure Beach’s newest ride – in the rain!

A pile of dumped mattresses in your back alley, builders' waste on your street, bags of rubbish in your local park – it makes it impossible for us to feel proud or safe in our communities. Now the government is cracking down on it.

Time restrictions on disabled bus passes are being lifted for good. The 5,061 people in Blackpool who currently hold one will be able to travel for free, any time, day or night.

Radical reform to education will open student finance outside of the traditional university route for the first time. The equivalent of four years of post-18 course funding will be available in Blackpool, alongside a proportionate maintenance loan to help with living costs for those eligible.  

The Prime Minister has made a clear commitment to building a country that works for everyone, everywhere. A key part of that is making everyday journeys easier and more affordable. 

Yesterday, on my Beyond the Prom tour, I sat down with GPs at Arnold Medical Centre who told me what I hear across the town – we have a mental health crisis in Blackpool, and we need urgent crisis support. I welcome today’s funding announcement and I’m pushing for Blackpool to get its fair share.

Blackpool is bidding to become UK City of Culture 2029 – and I want us to win it. Join me in backing the bid before it’s submitted on Monday.

Blackpool is a town with huge potential and pride. But we are also a case study in what happens when national policy neglects the specific needs of coastal communities.

When people talk about threats to democracy they often point to Westminster, but one of the biggest threats facing our democracy today is in our hands.

While millions enjoy our iconic promenade this summer, I’ll be heading Beyond the Prom – to meet residents, listen to them and take action in every corner of Blackpool South.

School’s out and this summer the government's Great British Summer Savings scheme is making it cheaper for families here to enjoy the town we love.