By Hannah Blythyn

MS for Delyn

I’d like to start this week’s column by congratulating all those learners across Flintshire who have received their BTEC, AS and A Level results this week. The pandemic has continued to impact teaching and learning and I want to pay tribute to all learners, and teaching and support staff for their efforts over the last year.

This year we have seen a record number of A Level entries and the number of A* and As has increased once again. I hope that all those receiving their results achieved what they wanted to achieve and I wish them the very best with the next steps of their education or as they move into the world of work.

It was great to have a history lesson of my own when I visited the recently reopened Bailey Hill, to see all the fantastic improvements which have been made to the site. Recent works have involved refurbishing the Custodian’s Cottage in to a visitors’ Centre, creating a new open air performance area and improving access around the site, to make visits even more enjoyable.

Whilst at Bailey Hill I learnt of the discovery of two skeletons during the renovation, which are now being studied and will hopefully provide even more information about the area. I would encourage anyone who hasn’t already, to visit and see for yourselves how much time and effort has gone into improving Bailey Hill for the wider community to enjoy.

On Friday I called in to the Flintshire Foodbank to thank the staff and volunteers for their continuing hard work to support those most in need in our communities. Though it would be far better if we did not have to see families relying on foodbanks, I am grateful for the generosity that so many people show, by both donating and distributing food parcels to those who need them.

To find out more about either Bailey Hill and how to get involved in, or receive support from, the Mold Foodbank, visit my Facebook page – Hannah Blythyn MS in the coming days.

This week I’ve spent time in Flint, Mold and Holywell high streets and markets, speaking to constituents about local issues and sharing some information on my work in recent weeks. Its also been great for me to call into local businesses to see how they are doing and continue to offer my support as restrictions continue to ease and we recover from the impact of the pandemic.

Though I’m still not holding face to face appointments, I am still doing my best to support constituents, through outdoor, virtual and telephone surgeries. If there is an issue which you wish to discuss with me then please get in touch by calling 01352 762102 or emailing me at Hannah.Blythyn@senedd.wales.