On Friday, I visited The Red Hart Inn at Blaisdon, a beautiful country inn in the heart of my constituency.
Here I am pictured with the proprietor Sharon Hookings. We spoke at length about both the challenges the pub has faced throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, and also the great work they have done to support the local community during this time.
From taking advantage of the Government support schemes on offer, to click and collect grocery services, Sharon and her team have really gone the extra mile over the last year.
As Chair of the Covid Recovery Group of Conservative MPs, I have been standing up for the hospitality sector - so important to the Forest and many other areas across the country - who have been at times unfairly scapegoated throughout Covid.
To open, establishments must be Covid-secure and are a statistically safe place to be. The evidence proves just how safe they are in times of Covid.
If you are able to go down to The Red Hart and enjoy their outdoor hospitality, I would really encourage you to do so as you will be helping a local business thrive, and will be making the most of the current easing of restrictions.