This past weekend, we saw Christians across our towns and villages mark Easter Sunday, a time of such joy in the Christian calendar. I hope all celebrating had a joyous time on this important weekend in the Christian faith. 

 Turning to the events of Easter Monday, I would like to send my condolences to all those mourning the death of Pope Francis who sadly passed away this week. I know so many in our communities will be reflecting on the loss and his leadership around the world. 

His Papacy was one focused on the poor, vulnerable and forgotten and his focus and leadership on highlighting those too often missed by society was admirable and inspiring.  

My thoughts remain with Catholics across the world, particularly in Warwick, Leamington, Whitnash and the villages, in the coming weeks as the world reflects with you. I hope in this period of mourning, the remarkable legacy of Pope Francis brings you comfort.  

 Turning to events in Parliament, earlier this week, I spoke briefly in the Westminster Hall debate on residential estate management companies. I know this is an issue of huge importance locally with hundreds of residents suffering seriously high 'estate charges' from management companies. 

These 'estate charges' are paid by residents alongside council tax and are, according to the management companies, for the management of the estate. This is often happening when developers choose to hand over control of the road/s over to a management company rather than the Council. 

 If the road was handed over directly from the developer to the Council, a resident there would only need pay council tax. However, for many residents they find themselves paying council tax and an 'estate charge' and find their road in a poorer condition than those managed solely by the Council.  

It appears to me as a way for management companies to make money off residents and is frankly a scam. I have raised it repeatedly in Parliament and am aware from other MPs that it is a widespread problem and not exclusive to our towns and villages. 

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In the debate on Tuesday, I raised these concerns over how widespread the problem is and reports that 80% of new homes sold by the 11 largest developers in 2021/22 were subject to estate management charges. It is a shocking statistic and represents the scale of this and the number of people who will be subject to these charges. 

It is an issue I will continue to press on and update residents on. It is clear that it cannot continue this way and I know the Government is keen to bring change. 

Finally, this is my final column before the local elections next month so I will take the opportunity to remind residents in our towns and villages that elections for Warwickshire County Council are taking place on Thursday 1 May.

Please do ensure you get down to your polling station and make your voice heard. Local elections are important; a good local representative can have a huge impact on an area. When you go to vote, please remember your photo ID so you can cast your ballot. 

As always, please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any issues or concerns you would like to raise with me. I can be reached at [email protected] or on 01926 882006.