Being a victim of crime can be extremely distressing. Time and again, I have been contacted by constituents who have been the victims of theft, burglary, criminal damage and arson. People who have been mugged in broad daylight in the town centre. Businesses subjected to the theft of diesel. Car owners who have had their vehicles stolen by thieves who broke into their houses and took their keys. Repeated acts of vandalism and criminal damage against cars.

Tackling anti-social behaviour in Barnsley remains a priority for me. The unpleasant and sometimes frightening experiences that local residents have shared with me, plus the scenes I have witnessed for myself, are simply unacceptable.

Recently, a significant number of constituents have been in touch and shared disturbing images of individuals in an unconscious or semi-conscious state in and around Peel Square in particular.

I have again raised my concerns with both South Yorkshire Police and Barnsley Council. Both have provided me with a comprehensive update on the work they are doing to target the influx of Spice onto our streets. They have advised that there is evidence of an organised crime group targeting vulnerable users with a particularly potent variety of Spice. A number of arrests have already been made and the police and the council will continue to work together to shut down the supply of 'Spice' into Barnsley as soon as possible.

It’s just two weeks since Barnsley hosted the Tour de Yorkshire.

The town centre was buzzing on the day, with the bunting and street stalls creating a fantastic atmosphere. It was really exciting to watch world-class cyclists setting out on the Second Stage of this internationally acclaimed cycling event, and I am glad that so many lined the route to cheer them on.

This week the town centre is buzzing as the final preparations for the Tour de Yorkshire are made. Friday promises to be a fantastic day and a very proud moment for Barnsley as we welcome one of the most prestigious international cycling events to our town.

However, I share the concerns expressed by many of my constituents regarding the recent increase in anti-social behaviour in the town centre. Many people have been in touch with me to share their experiences. It is deeply worrying that at a time when Barnsley should be celebrating, instead there are distressing images on social media of individuals collapsed in the streets due to drug and alcohol misuse.

This past week I have been out and about across my Barnsley Central constituency. Parliament is in recess for the conference season and so it’s a good chance to be talking to people about the issues that matter to them.

I have written before about anti-social behaviour in our town centre and it’s something I’m again increasingly concerned about.

Let’s be clear: the intimidating behaviour we have seen recently are seeing is totally unacceptable.

The actions of this small minority are affecting everyone. Whilst many shoppers just choose to go and shop somewhere else, local business owners and workers don’t have that choice.

The decision of the jury at the Hillsborough inquest has finally brought to light the truth about this appalling miscarriage of justice.