These are the things that are vital to the success of any community.
Here in South Tyneside, our council is really leading the way – the community wardens are working with our police officers to ensure South Shields is a safe place to live and work in.

Our schools continue to improve, and our town centre continues to thrive – Next, Debenhams and BHS were welcomed to South Shields and we look forward to the new Asda store opening later this year.

We must also note the fact that we have an award-winning hospital delivering a first-class service for all residents.

I'm not sitting here writing this column with rose-tinted glasses on, there is more to be done, but we are heading in the right direction.

Local government has direct responsibility for the provision of many key services and this government has worked hard to bring your local council closer to you, to enable and promote participation through community area forums and special scrutiny committees.

Labour will continue to work with communities across the UK to ensure local voices continue to be heard.

The availability of high-quality, affordable housing is an issue that goes right to the heart of Labour values.

Central to meeting future housing needs is the building of new, affordable housing to rent or buy.

When new estates such as Westoe Crown and the Cleadon Park are built, the private sector works with our council to ensure new social housing for our community.

Under Gordon Brown, Labour has also highlighted the need to move towards zero carbon development, the Prime Minister's eco-town proposals could help us define a new approach to building environmentally sustainable communities which are sustainable.

Much has been achieved in South Tyneside to make our borough a better place to live and work.

There is more to do, Labour will continue to listen and deliver for our communities.