Before becoming an MP, I started two major campaigns for a new style of politics beginning at the grassroots: Positive Politics and It Starts Here. Whether it is planning, business or politics, I believe it all starts with communities, with volunteers a central part of making all the difference to the feel of a town or village.

That’s why I was delighted to present the Community Awards recently in Attleborough recognising nearly 40 unsung heroes who work as fundraisers, community group leaders and volunteers.

John Kemble Taylor (above) received the overall winner prize for his incredible generosity to the Attleborough community.
Without these local heroes, our communities simply wouldn’t function. It was an honour to get the chance to pay tribute to the great work they do.