Parliament wasn't in session the last few weeks while the parties had their annual conferences.

As fun as conference is, I’ve been glad of the time back in Bolton because it means I can spend real time with local residents and organisations and really get stuck in with the issues affecting our area.

It was a pleasure to visit Fortalice, which provide refuge and services for people who are, or have been, affected by domestic abuse and violence and discuss the work that they are doing.]

I mentioned them in my maiden speech because they are a wonderful example that Bolton can give to the rest of the country. To hear more about the work that they are doing is so encouraging and I know that they are giving local women real help in the darkest points of their lives.

When local businesses in the town centre contacted me with their concerns about anti-social behaviour I called in to talk it through.

Our town centre should be the crown jewel of Bolton and I want everyone to feel safe there and for our businesses to thrive.

I’m speaking to the police about what we can do to help with the problems people are seeing and I’d encourage others to get in touch if you’re happy to share your experiences. What came through to me is that the businesses in the town centre really care, not just for their own financial wellbeing but the wellbeing of our town.

We all share this investment in making Bolton brilliant.

I’ve seen so many examples this week of people looking to unleash our potential.

Did you know that the biggest supplier of darts in the UK is based here in Bolton? I met Darts Corner this week to speak about how they accessed funding to grow the business to see how others can learn from their example.

I’ll be meeting Bolton Carers too, to learn about their experiences with lottery funding so we can build on that too.

I don’t think I realised quite how big a role schools would play in my role as an MP, but it’s been a delight to visit schools in the community to meet students and answer their questions.

Our children are so bright and engaged with the issues of the day and hopeful for the future. I can’t help but feel inspired after every visit. I’d like to give a special mention to Sharples School who are celebrating their Golden Jubilee this month, they should be very proud of their lasting legacy within our town.

Bolton has an exciting future ahead of it and we’re building it together every day.