I WAS in the House of Commons last week for the long-awaited BSE report.

This issue was raised with me several years ago by constituent Marie Lawrence, whose fiance, Mike, was sadly among the first people to die from variant CJD.

At the time, I raised the need for a full inquiry in Parliament and have kept a close interest in progress on the issue.

I am pleased the Government has already agreed to fund proper care packages for victims as well as compensation for the brave relatives like Marie who have lived so closely with this tragedy.

l Last Saturday was Make a Difference Day and people from Oakenshaw and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints organised a clean-up of the area.

The event was very well co-ordinated by Paul Isherwood, with support from the council, and I was delighted to be able to present certificates to those who took part.

Everyone seemed to enjoy the morning and I appear to have a few budding Wombles in the family!

The same day, I popped in to support the Bootleggers Group of line-dancers who were holding a 12-hour sponsored line dance for Children in Need.

This group manages to combine obvious enjoyment of the dancing with a range of activities to raise money and support local events.

I understand that they raised well over £2000 - an excellent effort.

I very much hope that footbaths were at the ready for when they finished!

On Sunday, I was lucky enough to be in the audience for the Teaching Awards.

This will be televised next Sunday and I encourage everyone to watch.

The award winners are truly inspirational and show what a satisfying and enjoyable job teaching can be.