When it comes to the future of our hospital, I believe elected representatives should put aside their political differences and pull together for the good of the town. And I’m delighted that’s exactly what happened this week.

Queen Street in Cheltenham is a normal, unassuming residential cul-de-sac. You pass it on your left as you head towards Gardner’s Lane off Swindon Road. Nothing out of the ordinary. You’ve probably never given it a second’s thought.

This week was Budget Week. Stronger than expected economic forecasts from the independent Office of Budget Responsibility meant the Chancellor had a bit more financial headroom. And he decided to spend it.

Silicon Spa is coming! This week the Digital Minister, Jeremy Wright, wrote to me to confirm that months of lobbying have paid off: the Government has financially committed to Cheltenham’s future as an 'internationally recognised centre of cyber security excellence'. 

John Lewis is opening. Ring out the bells!

Cheltenham MP Alex Chalk has welcomed the award of an extra £2.5million to help winter pressures on Gloucestershire’s social care.

This funding will ease pressure on the health system, and follows the announcement of £145 million to improve emergency care within the NHS this winter.

Enough is enough. The closure of Boots Corner has been a serious mistake, and it should be reversed before more damage is done.

What do you think Party Conferences are all about? From watching the news you might well assume that all the action is in the main hall, as ministers (and wannabe leaders?) set out their stall to the party faithful.

As I wrote last week, I strongly object to plans by local NHS managers to move all gastro-intestinal (general) surgery to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital.

In basic mechanics there’s a moment of maximum leverage. It’s that short period before a beam tips on its pivot, when a small effort can make a big different.

In relation to the future of Cheltenham General Hospital I believe we are nearing that moment now.