Blog Posts

  • Future Councils: New Ways of Working and Delivering Public Services

    I was asked to speak at this event in London. I shared my experiences of setting up our shared services with Northamptonshire ( LGSS ) to a significant number of councillors and officers from around the country. I was able to tell them about the significant savings we have made to date and how we… Read more

  • LGA – Economy and Transport board

    On thursday I attended the LGA economy and transport board meeting. There is a pre meet for the party groups before the all party board meeting takes place. Much of the detailed examination of policy takes place at the group sessions. There was lots of discussion about local authorities having a greater influence over strategic… Read more

  • Leveson inquiry

    Is the press perfect – no. Does it sometimes go over the top – yes. Does the press sometimes try to make the news rather than reporting it – yes. Can the press sometimes be irritating – yes. Does the press sometimes break the law – yes. All wrong doings of the press can be… Read more

  • Royal visit – so, who was missing?

    Given the significance of the visit to Cambridge by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge I was expecting a full turn out of the good and the great. The impact on tourism is huge. The impact on our school children and in particular those that were performing is profound. This visit showed the world that… Read more

  • Royal visit – great day

    Royal visit – great day

    Today was the day that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge had their first official visit to Cambridge. I was thrilled that they were coming to visit the Manor school. A school that has had it’s difficulties but is now on the up and up. I had the privilege to be in the official line… Read more

  • Royal visit – Manor school

    What an exciting day. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridgeshire visiting our wonderful county on the first official visit. I am looking forward to being introduced to them at the Manor school. I lobbied for the Manor to be included in this visit as I think it will give the school a very special lift… Read more