We live in an age when any open space is under threat, and there is massive commercial pressure to build on everywhere developers can (usually flats). My own view is that we should look to the wider public interest, and try to keep open spaces, and to make sure that they are “green” and not just concrete deserts.

It was good news that we have got rid of the old, disused underground toilets outside the Black Horse in the centre of Monkseaton. Thanks are due to those responsible, and I include Conservatives who also worked on this problem. But, I am afraid, it was an opportunity missed. If it hadn’t been for the good work of the Monkseaton Rotary Club it would really have been a paving slab emptiness. A wasted opportunity.

Fortunately, the Rotary Club has shown a real public spirit. I understand that they have provided the trees which give a little relief, and are going to do more. Well done. I wanted to say this earlier, but it was the election season, and I didn’t want to risk involving a non-political organisation by thanking them so publicly. Now I can do it without restraint.