Letter from Parliament - Paul Rowen MP

When Tory frontbench politician Chris Grayling MP compared gang crime in Moss Side to that of Baltimore, as depicted in the Wire, his remarks sparked a storm of protest. The same politician last year described Falinge as the benefits capital of Britain, resulting in TV AM spending a week in the area and lurid media headlines.

It is very easy for a politician or the media to make cheap comments usually for their own advancement. Grayling's comments on Falinge might have hit upon a problem but they did little to describe the real character, community spirit and good work that is going on.

I was very pleased therefore last week to be invited to contribute to a programme being made by a group of young filmmakers who live and work in Rochdale on what's good about our town. They had been so incensed by the BBC programme, "The Trouble with Girls", that they have challenged the BBC to show the real side of our town. Their filming included Andrew Nutter's Gem Appeal luncheon and the work of the Backdoor Music project. I look forward to seeing whether the BBC take up their challenge to show the real side of our town.

I was able last week to meet Stephen Jenkinson from Viridor Laing to discuss the ongoing problem of the disposal of trade waste and to meet Penny Sharp to discuss regeneration and support for small businesses. Discussions are continuing but I am hopeful that we will soon have a much more sensible scheme in place.

I was able also to visit Globe Taxis Office to present the £200 raffle prize to two of their customers. They had held a raffle for the Springhill Hospice and the winning couple will use it towards their holiday in Eastbourne in a couple of weeks.

One of the biggest fundraisers for Springhill Hospice is the calendar featuring photos taken by members of the public and chosen in a competition. The results were announced last week when Ian Jenkins and Christine Webb officiated. I was delighted to see the Observer had more than exceeded its target with its 'spare a fiver appeal.' During the last twelve months Robbie has certainly been to some exciting places! I was delighted too that Ian and Janet Sandiford and the Rotary Club of Rochdale East got a special mention for their efforts. Anyone visiting the Hospice now cannot fail to be impressed with the facilities.

A group of Milnrow girls from Hollingworth High recently represented us in the Carnegie Challenge Final in London beating De La Salle Wigan 36 -0. Well done girls - we are proud of you!