As the Member of Parliament for Cannock Chase, it is always fantastic to meet local talented children and young people. In the last couple of weeks I’ve met with many stars of today and the future.
I had the pleasure of being part of an afternoon in Rugeley planting Sakura cherry trees with pupils from both the Forest Hills school and the John Bamford school.
We were planting the trees as part of a nationwide initiative called the Sakura Cherry Tree Project. The project will see thousands of Sakura cherry trees planted across the country in celebration of the friendship between the UK and Japan.
The layout of the trees has been planned by the pupils and in consultation with local residents. A huge congratulations to Poppy, from the John Bamford school, whose design won the competition and forms the layout of the trees. The piece of land where the trees were planted will now enjoy an annual cherry blossom display. I am really looking forward to returning to see them in a few years, once the trees have established themselves.
Also in Rugeley, I attended a fabulous exhibition at the Rugeley Rose Theatre, inspired by the former power station and the site's regeneration. The Energy Arts Project Display, funded by the Arts Council, included a exhibition of 3D printed cooling towers which had been designed and decorated by local youth groups, pupils from the Hart School and artist Kirsten Jesson.
Don’t worry if you missed the display. These truly wonderful designs will be on display across Cannock Chase as part of an interactive trail which will be launched on the Cannock Chase CAN app.
In Hednesford, I visited the fantastic local dance school, Crystal Academy and watched the incredibly talented pupils practice their dance routines and moves on ariel rings and silks.
Crystal Academy's pupils perform at many local events and are keen to get involved with many more.
It was great to meet Kirsty and the team and see first-hand the passion they have for teaching dance as well as watching the stars of the future in action!
It has been brilliant to see so much home grown talent here in Cannock Chase in the last couple of weeks! If you have a local event or group you would like me to attend or visit please do get in touch. In the same way as you would if you need my help on amanda.milling.mp@parliament.uk or call 01543 877142.
