100 years on: Remembering Albert Edward Shepherd
100 years ago today, on the 10th of November 1917, The Third Battle of Ypres ended. It was a battle so terrible that it grew to symbolise the true horror of the First World War and became synonymous with the village where it ended; Passchendaele.
Read moreBarnsley Chronicle Column: Meeting Barnsley's Armed Forces community
I was recently fortunate enough to spend an evening with the men and women of the Barnsley branch of the York and Lancaster Regimental Association.
The branch is made up of ex-service people and their families, and is drawn from a broad range of armed forces backgrounds, not just the Yorkshire Regiment. This mix of personalities and pasts combine to create a hugely welcoming and enjoyable community club. One where, despite the usual mickey-taking about me being an ex-para, I had a great time.
Read moreDefence: Renewal of Trident
The first responsibility of any government is to defend the national security of this country. I believe that Trident plays an important role in that. That is why I have always voted in favour of renewal of our nuclear deterrent, but I am mindful of the concerns that have been raised.
Read moreTake Time to Remember and Reflect
2016 has been another poignant year of remembrance. The people of Britain and the Commonwealth marked the centenary of the battles of Jutland and the Somme.
Read moreInternational: Isil in the Middle East
There is no doubt that Isil poses a serious threat to our national security. They have carried out terrorist atrocities in France, Turkey, and against many of our other allies. Our intelligence agencies have foiled a number of planned attacks on the UK in recent years. That is why it is right that we are acting, along with our international partners, to confront this barbaric organisation.
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