On a rather sensitive issue this week, following on from my correspondence with South Somerset District Council about the situation at Yeovil Crematorium, where the chapel is closed; I have written to the Archbishop of Canterbury’s office regarding the Church of England’s stance on funerals. I accept that churches are closed to congregational services but Government has never instructed that small-scale funerals should not take place – nor that flags should not fly.

In other news, during my weekly conference call with Dorset Police it is clear that, despite a general downturn in local crime, drug dealing and trafficking continues, so does the devastating impact of ‘County Lines’. Please report suspicious behaviour to Crimestoppers, anonymously and free of charge, on 0800 555 111.

Many of you have asked when household recycling centres will reopen and I am lobbying Government on this, as the situation with irresponsible fly-tipping is unacceptable. I have also asked for a controlled reopening of our garden centres, which I believe would bring immense benefits and sense of wellbeing here.

On the subject of wellbeing, I would like to thank all those involved with HUGS in Bridport for their invaluable work promoting positive mental health; with support groups currently reaching out to the community through phone calls and video conferencing.

Finally, this week I’ve discussed a range of issues with Dorset Councillors, including business grants, PPE, the situation with care homes and local emergency dentistry provision. We now have an Urgent Dental Centre at Dorset County Hospital - patients should telephone their usual dentist or 111 first to be referred. I would like to pay credit to all our local councillors who have demonstrated a real strength of tenacity as we tackle the effects of coronavirus together.

CHRIS LODER

WEST DORSET MP