AFTER a lovely local Christmas, it is time to reflect on the past 12 months and plan for the new year.

High points in 2013 included government recognition of the importance of our local rail links; seeing more health care services in Savernake Hospital, for which many of us have campaigned, and supporting and singing with the wonderful Salisbury Plain Military Wives Choir.

I also welcomed the 20 per cent fall in local unemployment and the many signs of economic recovery nationally. My campaign for a safer internet delivered more than I ever hoped for, and personally it was challenging and satisfying to be made a Government Whip and to finally move into the beautiful Pewsey Vale with my family.

This year I will be focusing on five priorities: l Getting a firm commitment to build the often-promised Primary Care Centre in Devizes.

l Cementing the future of our long distance train services following the success of our campaign in getting the Department of Transport to agree that electrification to Great Bedwyn made sound economic sense l Investing in our high streets. While doing my Christmas shopping, I was struck once again by the variety and quality of goods and services on offer in our local towns. I am already working with councils and local retailers to explore options to boost trade but there are so many other things we can do, like ‘free after three’ parking, loyalty schemes, and more help for start up businesses.

l Securing government money for the Wiltshire City Deal bid for resources to train and support those leaving the armed forces for private sector jobs.

l Accelerating the roll-out of super high speed broadband in Wiltshire. I applaud Wiltshire Council for securing government funding for this crucial investment but the promise seems a long way from reality.