TORY LOONS

Tory activists are 'mad, swivel - eyed loons' 

No, that's not me writing that - I wouldn't be that impolite. These words were used by one of David Cameron's closest allies at a private dinner this week, according to the Times today 

Nuff said really - I can't better that. 

OASIS

I was invited yesterday with Yvonne Fovargue MP to talk to members of Oasis, a voluntary group who support local people suffering from mental health, who are struggling financially, single parents or those who are just lonely.

We were very interested to hear the experiences of some of the group who had  mental health problems with claiming the benefits . It was clear that they thought that they had not been treated with respect at the Jobcentre because of their illness. As one member pointed out 'Anyone can see if you have a broken leg but mental illness is much more difficult to spot but is just as disabling.' Myself and Yvonne will be addressing this issue in the near future.

The other issue for this group is lack of premises.The need for their services are growing but they cannot expand because of a lack of  premises in Ashton They are a voluntary group with limited funding so they cannot afford to pay a large rent. Both myself and Yvonne together with the Council are trying to find suitable premises at an affordable rent but so far without success.  If anyone reading this article has any ideas please contact me.  

SUPPORT GROUP FOR STROKE VICTIMS

Last week I was also invited to the opening of the Think Ahead Community Stroke Group - a support group for people who have suffered a stroke. Their new offices are in Ashland House, Manchester Road Ince. 

The group is dedicated to prevent strokes through healthy living and showing that there is life after the illness. 

If you need support because you have suffered a stroke or you know of anyone who needs such support visit www.think-ahead.org.uk 

Wigan Youth Zone

I took the opportunity to visit the Youth Zone last week and what a fantastic facility it is.

There are so many opportunities for young people to participate in activities including sports, dancing ,music and a superb climbing wall. There will also be courses laid on to improve job opportunities for young people. 

Anybody is welcome to visit the Zone to take a look for themselves on the following dates:  

Thursday May 23 and Tuesday May 28:

On Saturday June 8 there is the Big Bang Opening. A fun-packed day for all the family - and it’s all free. More details to be announced nearer the time.

If you’d like to register to attend either the Business Support Event, or Community Open Night, email simon.baker@wiganyouthzone.org or call the Youth Zone on 01942 612061.

Same Old Tories part 2

Over 130 Tories vote against proposals in the Queen's speech and in effect David Cameron. This is hailed as party unity by one of the leading Eurosceptics. Funny choice of words. I would call it a shambolic mess.

No mention of the rise in  unemployment, oil companies accused of price rigging over a long period of time, claims that Amazon and Google are avoiding paying tax , the collapse of services in some A and E hospital departments and many more issues that concern the public.

Once again a divided Tory party has  got their collective  head stuck in the Eurosceptic sand and cannot see the important issues. Long may they continue to do so.

And it is good to see Nigel Farage get a rough ride in Scotland. Welcome to the real world of politics, Nigel  where you can't be everybody's flavour of the day all the time.

WELL DONE WIGAN

Congratulations to the players, manager and staff at Wigan FC  for their fantastic victory on Saturday to bring home the FA Cup. 

When I first came to live in Ashton in 1979 Wigan had just become a league club. Their progress from there  to Saturday's victory within 34 years  is little short of miraculous in these days when money is all in football. 

Good luck to the team on Tuesday against Arsenal 

SAME OLD TORIES

Good to see the Tories continue to tear themselves apart over Europe which according to the polls comes about fifth place in importance for the British public. It's just like the final days of John Major's Government

Long may it continue.