At 11am on the 11th of November people around the country paused in silence to remember the sacrifice of those who have fallen in the service of our country.

This Thursday you have the chance to choose a new Police and Crime Commissioner for South Yorkshire. Given that anti-social behaviour and crime are amongst the top issues raised with me locally, this is an important election for people in Barnsley. The person you choose will be responsible for South Yorkshire Police and provide funding to organisations such as Victim Support – who provide essential help to victims of crime.

As the local MP, I get to meet a whole range of individuals, groups and businesses. It’s particularly rewarding when I manage to introduce them to each other, so they can combine their skills to do great work for our town.

They say a week is a long time in politics. So it’s not surprising that the fortnight since my last column has been packed with significant events.

In a week when our nation’s eyes are fixed towards Scotland, we cannot afford for recent events in Rotherham to be forgotten.

I was pleased to hear recently that the shop selling ‘legal highs’ in our town centre was closing. The anti-social behaviour generated by users of these substances in and around the Arcade had a profound effect, putting off potential shoppers and frightening shop-keepers and residents.

As we approach the centenary of the outbreak of World War One, there are many different opportunities to engage with the commemorations.

The Tour de France has really captured the imagination of Yorkshire. It’s been heartening to see local residents and businesses get into the spirit of this world reknowned sporting event. From the home made bunting lining our streets, to the themed shop displays in the town.

I’ve often written in this column about those key things which make life possible – having a job, a home, keeping healthy. These are our building blocks and, as an MP, I am often involved in helping people to get these fixed.

Last Friday, I had the pleasure of hosting the Barnsley Youth Choir’s fundraising dinner. I believe the Youth Choir represents the best of Barnsley, embodying the spirit of talent and dedication that we find throughout our town. They bring together over 200 young people – between the ages of 8 and 18 – from a variety of backgrounds, with different talents, tastes and musical aspirations and encourages them to be the best that they can. I have seen firsthand the creativity and commitment of those involved and it is something that we can all be proud of.