I HOPE you are all enjoying the easing of lockdown restrictions, whether that be visiting your local pub or heading to the gym.

Since my last column, I have been busy visiting local shops, pubs, gym and more to support them as they open their doors again. Lets get behind our local high streets!

I had the chance to visit the newly refurbished Crewe Market Hall to speak to the team ahead of their opening on May 19. There has been significant investment to transform the well-known grade 2 listed building into an indoor food market which will be filled with a whole host of vendors.

Whether you choose a Pizza from Jordys pizza, fajitas from Casa Mexicana or something sweet from Buttery Biscuit Base, there is something for everyone. Additionally, there will also be pop-up stalls, a barbers and even a beauty salon.

The team are also hoping to hold events in the Market Hall in late summer, so look out for more information on their Facebook page. They are really passionate about making the Market Hall a success and they are building something new and exciting for Crewe.

It is positive to see that investments are being made here in Crewe after what has been a tough year for local businesses. I would highly recommend visiting and supporting these businesses when the market opens, I know I will be attending.

Any day now we should hear back from government about our £25 million Town Deal bid to super charge regeneration even further. I am determined to play my part on transforming Crewe and building a positive new future for the town.

Parliament finished up its latest Parliamentary session. People aren't always aware that the government is changing anything, good news does not always make the headlines. So I wanted to share some information about some of the new laws this session of Parliament has passed that are going to make a difference to people's lives.

I receive numerous emails regarding animal welfare from constituents, it's clear that many residents are animal lovers. The Animal Welfare Sentencing Bill has now become law, which sees the maximum sentence for crimes such as dog fighting and puppy abuse increased from six months to 5 years and an unlimited fine, coming into effect on June 29.

These sentencing guidelines will be among the toughest in Europe and allows the courts to take firmer action against these crimes.

The Domestic Abuse Bill was also recently made law, providing protection to millions of people who experience domestic abuse, and strengthening measures to tackle perpetrators. The landmark Domestic Abuse Act steps up the response to domestic abuse at every level – expanding the legal definition of domestic abuse, giving victims more support than ever before, while also ensuring perpetrators feel the full force of the law.

Also passed was the Overseas Operations Bill. This Bill will end the cycle of reinvestigation and constant pursuit of our veterans, while still ensuring access to justice, delivering on our manifesto commitment. Our armed forces risk their lives to protect us, this bill will help us do more to protect them.

Finally, the counter terrorism and sentencing act was also passed this year. The new Counter-Terrorism Bill will force those who receive extended determinate sentences to serve the whole time behind bars and ensure those convicted of serious offences such as preparing acts of terrorism or directing a terrorist organisation spend a mandatory minimum of 14 years in prison.

Another promise delivered keeping terrorists off our streets for longer and ensuring that UK citizens are safer.

So even if you don't always hear about it, the government is cracking on delivering in all sorts of ways and I have been voting to support these laws and make our fantastic country an even better place to live.