Kelvin called into Tadpoles Nursery in Icknield Way and was shown the new building extension accommodating the baby unit by the manager, Pam Gray.
Kelvin says, "I was delighted to visit the nursery and to meet Pam and her dedicated staff. It was also a pleasure to see so many happy children, and so obviously well cared for, taking part in different activities. I would like to congratulate everyone at the nursery which I understand is full and has a long waiting list".

Kelvin is pictured (right) helping the toddlers with a jigsaw puzzle.

(22nd June 2009)

Kelvin attended the raising of the Armed Forces Day flag at the Town Hall.
This is the first Armed Forces Day, and is an opportunity for the nation to show its appreciation for the men and women who make up the modern Armed Forces in our community. Luton, in common with hundreds of towns and cities across Britain held a special flag-raising ceremonies at 10:30 on Monday 22 June. The flag was to be flown until Monday 29th June.

Kelvin is pictured (left) with the Mayor of Luton, Councillor Mohammed Riaz and other dignitaries; and (above) the Armed Forces Day flag is raised at Luton Town Hall.

(22nd June 2009)

Kelvin visited a stall at the Arndale Mall held by a local charity Breathe Easy and Luton Borough Council.
Breathe Easy is the local voluntary group to help and support anyone who suffers (or cares for someone) with a breathing problem in the Luton and District area.
Luton Borough Council was promoting their airAlert scheme. The service for people with any respiratory condition, provided free pollution alerts when high levels of air polution is forecast. The alerts are sent the day before by email, text/SMS or voicemail to people who have registered for their service at the website or by calling 54 66 74.

Kelvin is pictured (right) with the charity Chair Michael Heaphy the Treasurer Margaret Wilkin and Brian Page of Luton Borough Council at the Breathe Easy stall.

(19th June 2009)

Kelvin attended the opening of the East Luton Corridor by Lord Bill McKenzie of Luton.
It is the biggest highways project ever undertaken by Luton Borough Council and involves the upgrading of the A1081 and A505 to dual carriageway, a new bus only road from Luton Parkway Station to the airport and a new dual carriageway route between Airport Way and Percival Way leading directly to London Luton Airport.
It will significantly improve the journey for passengers both arriving and departing from London Luton Airport. Luton's main business corridor will now be linked for the first time to London and the whole of the national motorway network by a dual carriageway, which will be an aid to major development and business growth potential including the expansion of airport related businesses.

Kelvin is pictured (left) at the opening of the road with Councillor Roy Davis, the councils Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Bill McKenzie.

(18th June 2009)

Kelvin attended a Mobile Health Check organised by the Blood Pressure Association and NHS Luton. The Blood Pressure Association is a charity that aims to lower the nation's blood pressure and to offer help and support to people with raised blood pressure and advise on how to lower it.
Men are often at greater risk from serious health problems - often because they don't go to the doctors as often as women and because they fail to take simple precautions to spot and treat serious illness at an early stage. This association$s specially-equipped health check van will be traveling to several parts of Luton, inviting men to get a free, instant check-up with lots of invaluable advice and information from trained health care professionals.

Kelvin is pictured (right) having his blood pressure taken outside the mobile unit.

(14th June 2009)

Kelvin attended the Hockwell Ring Festival in Leagrave. Attractions at this free festival included dance performances, a bucking broncho, a bouncy castle and face painting.
There were also numerous information stalls from the Police, Neighbourhood Watch, the Health Trust, Luton Borough Council and others.

Kelvin is pictured (left) with the Mayor of Luton, Councillor Mohammed Riaz, Leagrave Councillor Desline Stewart and children of Leagrave Primary School who gave a performance of dance.

(14th June 2009)

Kelvin attended the 18th Luton Festival of Transport in Stockwood Park which is organised by the Chiltern Vehicle Preservation Group. There was a huge selection of over 1,250 vehicles from all over the world including buses, motorcycles and military vehicles. As well as the classic cars there was an autojumble and a road safety exhibition from Luton's Road Safety team.
Kelvin found a 1950 Ford V8 Pilot, which he remembers his father owning and driving the Hopkins family on holidays in the 1950s. The Pilot was launched by Ford in 1947 and featured Hydro-mechanical brakes and a column leaver change. A special V8 Pilot Estate was built for the Royal family and is now displayed in the museum at Sandringham. Production of the Ford V8 Pilot finished in 1951.

Kelvin is pictured (right) examining the V8 Pilot at the Luton transport festival.

(14th June 2009)

Kelvin attended a concert of Cantata, a local choir of some 35 ladies, at Farley Hill Methodist Church The choir, which meets in Luton once a week aims to make music to entertain and raise funds for charities and churches. The music that they perform ranges from the light classical through to pop tunes and West End musicals.
Cantata was formed in 1993 and gave some memorable concerts at Luton Hoo. This splendid venue attracted a larger audience, people who had never heard of us and tickets were always sold out in no time at all. The choir has gone from strength to strength and as in all choirs and choral groups, as each year passes we lose some members and gain others. The demise of the Putteridge Singers, although sad for them, brought us a number of good voices and helped us to achieve a fuller and more balanced sound.

Kelvin is pictured (left) with some of the ladies from a small group called Close Harmony who also sung with Cantata choir.

(13th June 2009)

Kelvin formally opened the Hopkins Building at the University of Reading which is named after his father, the renowned British physicist, Harold Hopkins FRS.
The £17 million building, which will be home to the University's new facilities for biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences, is named after Professor Hopkins, who among other things invented rod-lens endoscopes that led to the development of modern key-hole surgery. Professor Hopkins held the Professorship in Applied Optics at the University from 1967 until 1984. The prestigious and architecturally striking new facility seeks to emulate Professor Hopkins' reputation in biomedical research, housing multi-disciplinary activities focussing on the University's key areas of expertise in the biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences. His many achievements include the invention of zoom lenses, coherent fibre-optics and rod-lens endoscopes which 'opened the door' to modern key-hole surgery.
He was the recipient of many of the world's most prestigious awards and was twice nominated for a Nobel Prize. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1973.

The Hopkins Building (below left), Kelvin at the opening of the building with a portrait of his father in the background (below centre) and (below right) with his step-mother Christine Hopkins, who had celebrated her 90th birthday the previous day.

(12th June 2009)

Kelvin was pleased to open the Challney festival in his Luton North constituency. The free festival, organised by Luton Borough Council's Community Development team, offered something for all the family with an exciting array of activities including arena events, children's entertainers, a rodeo bull, slide fair rides, face painting, gladiator duels, an assault course, stalls, food, a poster competition and much much more. Officials from the Council, Police, Primary Care Trust, Fire Service and various community groups were on hand to provide information.
The festival was organised as part of a Council scheme to increase opportunities for local people to get involved in local decision-making and shaping the future of their neighbourhoods.

Kelvin is pictured (right) at the Luton Borough Council stand examining a map of the Challney ward where people were invited to give their ideas about what the priorities for Challney should be.

(6th June 2009)

Investors in Families (IiF) is a national accreditation scheme and has been established to recognise and promote the importance of family-friendly approaches, which many schools have already developed.
Kelvin was pleased to be able to call into the IiF awards for Luton Schools. The schools that receive the IiF award will have demonstrated their commitment to working with families to achieve each of the five outcomes of the Government's Every Child Matters agenda and to have evidence that they are working with families to deliver the five outcomes; be healthy, stay safe, enjoy & achieve, positive contribution and economic well-being.

Kelvin is pictured (left) with Alan Palmer, Assistant Head teacher of Challney High School for Girls and the school's Investor in Families Award.

(5th June 2009)

Kelvin was pleased to visit the Luton Bangladesh Helping Hand Project, a charity that was set up by the Bangladeshi community in Luton to help the people of Bangladesh.
They have raised funds to build a multi-functional building in Bangladesh which will not only act as a much needed cyclone shelter, but as a school, adult adult education centre and a community centre. The worst cyclone to hit Bangladesh was in 1991 and it killed at least 100,000 people and left over 10 million homeless. The building work for the shelter and centre is well under way and the completed building should be open soon.
Kelvin says, "We are very privileged to live in one of the more prosperous countries in the world and we must not forget, even in these difficult economic times, that there are many countries and people in the world who are much poorer than us and we have a duty to help them. This is exactly what the Bangladeshi community in Luton is doing with this Helping Hands project and I am very pleased to support it."

Kelvin is pictured (right) addressing the Helping Hands meeting.

(31st May 2009)

Kelvin visited Elster Metering UK which is based in Sundon Park in Luton North.
Elster manufacture domestic and industrial water meters and have been shortlisted for the Institution of Mechanical Engineers' Manufacturing Excellence Awards, which aims to support and recognise manufacturing sucess.
The facility in Luton employs 160 people and produces over half a million water meters and 3 million component sets a year. The engineering that goes into the water meters is very precise and quality control is extremely rigorous. Elster is an industry leader and is producing a world-class product in Luton.
Kelvin was given a tour of the factory and was shown the manufacturing of parts, assembly, testing and research and development.

Kelvin is pictured with a water meter (left) outside the Elster Metering factory in Sundon Park together with Tim Gabriel, the general manager, Mark Barrow, Ian Stewart and Phil Crowther.

(29th May 2009)

Kelvin was please to help present the annual achievement awards for the Kip McGrath Education Centre in Luton.
Kip McGraph provides professional tuition in English and Maths for students of all abilities aged 6 to 16. The centre caters for children who are having difficulty with schoolwork and for those who are preparing for specific examinations such as SATs or GCSEs. Students follow a personal programme of learning that utilises computer programmes, audio tapes, work books, structured worksheets and individual attention from the tutor within a small group. Students learn at their own pace and the aim is to instil confidence in their own abilities so that they reach their full potential.

Kelvin made a brief speech and is pictured (right) giving awards to children who attend the Kip McGrath Education Centre.

(28th May 2009)

Kelvin attended the investiture of the new Mayor, Councillor Mohammed Riaz, and Deputy Mayor, Councillor Morel Benard. The Mayor has lived in Luton for 36 years and was elected to the Council in 2003 as a Labour councillor representing Saints ward in Kelvin's Luton North constituency.
Councillor Riaz said, "I am truly honoured to be serving the people of Luton as their Mayor and I hope I will be able to continue the good work of our former Mayors. I would like to thank my wife Aslat for her support and I am pleased that she will act as Mayoress for the next year.
I am a very proud Lutonian and I'm proud our town is so diverse with multi cultural communities living and working together. I also would like to continue to build bridges between the communities; this has been one of my main aims during my life as a local politician. I hope we will all continue to work together for the improvement of this wonderful town."
Deputy Mayor, Morel Benard came from the Caribbean at the age of 10 years and first lived in London. She has been a Luton resident for six years and was elected to the Council in May 2007. Like the Mayor she also represents Saints ward.

Kelvin is pictured (above left) on the steps of the Town Hall with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

(27th May 2009)

Kelvin attended the official relaunch of the Luton Central Library after a major £1.8 million refurbishment funded by the Big Lottery and Luton Borough Council.
Anne Fine - author and former Children's Laureate was the guest speaker at the official opening.
The revamped library isn't just about books; there is a new under 5s area and the Homework Club in the larger children's library. Fifteen Plus is another new area, with a music and DVD collection ranging from Hollywood to Bollywood. If you're in a hurry, there is an improved quick choice book section and new self service kiosks to speed up queuing, plus a new IT section for quick emails and internet access. To work quietly without distractions, visitors can use the new study and IT area and there are lots of PCs. There is a family history and local studies area where you can use the internet, search family history records or check records on CD-Rom.

Kelvin is pictured (right) at the library re-opening with Anne Fine.

(26th May 2009)

Over 80,000 people enjoyed the Luton International Carnival 2009, it is Britain's biggest one day carnival and is a blend of Caribbean, African, Asian, English, Latin American and Irish sounds and a variety of dance, food and entertainment all on the same day, superbly reflecting the diverse mix of cultures in Luton.
The highlight of the day was the eye catching procession where 35 different groups, clubs, schools, societies and communities impressed the crowds with their breath taking, magnificent costumes. The parade passes by Kelvin's house, giving him a spectacular view of the event. There were also street entertainers, a variety of craft and food stalls and fairground attractions for all the family to enjoy.

Kelvin is pictured (left) outside his house with Labour MEP Richard Howitt as the carnival parade passes.

(25th May 2009)

Kelvin spoke at a meeting organised by Love Music Hate Racism (LMHR) at the University of Bedfordshire. Kelvin spoke about his love of music and how he was inspired by the great black jazz musicians to take up playing the saxophone, forming his own band while at school. He said that racism and intolerance of any kind has no place in our town and in our society. He went on to point out what a wonderfully diverse town Luton is and that outsiders and fascists coming in trying to upset the harmony of the town must be resisted.

Kelvin is pictured (right) handing a campaign donation to Andrew Robbins of Luton LMHR from the Luton Trades Council.

(21st May 2009)

Kelvin was invited to the AGM of the Luton Scouts and Cubs and was invited to present awards to the Guides and Beavers, Scouts and Cubs.
Kelvin says, "This marks another successful year for the Scouts in Luton and for all their events and activities. I would like to congratulate all the young people in the Scouting Movement. It is always a great pleasure to be involved in this annual award ceremony for the Scouts."

Kelvin is pictured (left) presenting a shield to one of the Cubs.

(20th May 2009)

Kelvin met with Montell Neufville, the Youth Director of Marsh Farm Development Trust and some of the young people from the estate. The MFDT was set up to manage the government's New Deal for Communities (NDC) regeneration programme. In 2001 £48.8 million NDC funding was awarded to Marsh Farm over a ten-year period to improve the area.
The young people were keen to tell Kelvin some of their ideas for how they would like to see their are and the town improved. Kelvin says,"I was pleased to meet with these young people and it is good to see them taking an active interest in the regeneration of Marsh Farm. I will be meeting with them again in the future to help develop some of their ideas with the MFDT and with the council."

Kelvin is pictured (right) with Montell Neufville and some of the young people.

(17th May 2009)

Kelvin attended the soil cutting at Barnfield West Academy performed by Lord Bill McKenzie. The old school building is about to be demolished and a new £30 million state-of-art building will be completed by 2011.
The building (right) will have the very latest technology and a Sixth Form building for 125 students. The rebuild is part of the Labour government's Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme. It is the biggest single government investment in improving school buildings for over 50 years and will rebuild or renew every school in the country.

Pictured (left) are Lord Bill McKenzie of Luton, Barnfield Principle Pete Birkett, Kelvin, Barnfield West Academy Principle Rachel de Souza together with some of the students.

(15th May 2009)

Kelvin visited the local Luton Macca Bingo in Skimpot Road to help launch their new national fundraising scheme for the charity Whizz-Kidz. This will turn peoples' unwanted mobile phones into cash to support the independence of young wheelchair-users in the local communities.
Mobiles for Mobility asks that people bring their old mobile phones into their local Mecca bingo club, with the recycling funds-raised going to the charity.
Last year Mecca Bingo customers raised over a quarter of a million pounds to support young wheelchair-users' independence.

Kelvin is pictured (right) at the Luton Mecca Bingo club with the Mobiles for Mobility recycling bin.

(14th May 2009)

Kelvin attended a conference to celebrate the Children's Centres in Luton organised by the Borough Council.
The guest speakers were minister in the department for Children, Young People and Families Baroness Delyth Morgan and Dr Maria Robinson, who is an independent adviser in Early Years Development. Delyth Morgan prised the opening of the 3,000th Sure Start centre. She said,"Ten years ago there were no Sure Start centres at all. Now there are 3,000 round the country, benefitting 2.4 million families. Nine out of ten parents using Children's Centres are happy with the services they receive."
Managers from the Children's Centres from all across the town attended the conference and there were numerous presentations, including from a child safety expert and from Lewsey Children's Centre. There were also various awards for different achievements presented to the centre staff.

Kelvin is pictured (left) with Baroness Delyth Morgan.

(8th May 2009)

Kelvin attended part of the day-long party to celebration of the opening of the world's first dedicated Centre for Carnival Arts in Luton.
Kelvin says, "It is very exciting that Luton has the first Carnival Centre in the world and is a tribute to all the people who worked so hard to make this wonderful building a reality. Carnival has always been a celebration of the diversity of the town and its people and now carnival arts has this unique building to operate from."

Kelvin is pictured (right) with Councillors Jacqui Burnett, Hazel Simmons, and Tahir Khan together with Richard Howitt MEP.

(3rd May 2009)

Hello Luton, My New Home is a new exhibition at Wardown Park Museum that celebrates the cultural diversity of Luton. The exhibition is part of the Luton Voices project, an oral history project that aims to record, preserve and celebrate the oral history of broad range of communities who, together, make Luton what it is today.

Pictured (below left) is a Thai dancer performing outside the museum in Stockwood Park. Kelvin talking to the Mayor of Luton, Councillor Lakhbir Singh (below centre) and (below right) with Dr Nazia Khanum under the tree of wishes.

(2nd May 2009)

Kelvin attended the dedication of a stained glass 'melchizedek' window at Harlington church in memory of the ministry and public service of the late Revd Ivor Clemistson MP. Ivor Clemitson was the Labour MP for Luton East between 1976 and 1979 having previously been a Church of England priest. Sadly, he died in 1979, shortly after retiring to France with his wife Jan, formerly manager of the Library Theatre.
A window commemorating Ivor's life both as a priest and as an MP was dedicated at Harlington church where Ivor had himself been a minister.
Many of Ivor's family and friends attended the ceremony.
Kelvin says, "This is a fitting tribute to a caring and unique man. he served his community well in both roles and was also a lifelong Luton Town supporter. Ivor was a friendly man, liked by everyone who knew him and we were good friends too, especially when we stood together for election in 1983. We did not win that time, but we certainly fought the good fight as friends and comrades in Parliament."

Kelvin is pictured (left) with Rt Revd David Farmbrough, former Bishop of Bedford, Mrs Jean Bullimore (Ivor's sister), Jan Clemitson, Nadine Dorries MP (whose constituency now includes Harlington) and Revd Stephen J Williams.

(2nd May 2009)

Kelvin attended the second Pride in Luton Awards which celebrates wonderful people who are making a difference to our community in Luton. The awards are for individuals and groups, for people working in the public sector and for companies which play an important part in the community. People can nominate themselves or their organisation for the awards, or they can nominate others.
The presentation of the awards was made by special guest actor Ricky Groves who has played Garry Hobbs in Eastenders for the past nine years. The awards are organised by the Herald & Post newspaper and the Luton Forum.
Kelvin says, "I would like to congratulate all the winners and everyone who was nominated for an award this year. The awards evening was a wonderful event that I thoroughly enjoyed and I hope others attending did too."

Pictured (right) is actor Ricky Groves with Iqra Zaman who won an award in the Children of Courage category.

(30th April 2009)

Kelvin called in at the the Vauxhall Heritage Centre's annual open day. The Heritage Centre is situated in Luton close to Griffin House, the corporate headquarters of the company. At the Heritage Centre, Vauxhall has a collection of over 50 Griffin-badged classics, from the earliest 1903 model to the iconic muscle cars such as the Lotus Carlton and Monaro VXR.
This year, the open day was tied in with 'Drive it Day' - the one day a year where owners of old cars, bikes and trucks are encouraged to take to the road and celebrate the heritage of motoring. A special parking area right in front of the Heritage Centre was provided for those arriving in old or interesting vehicles and there was a reserved area set aside for those wishing to sell auto-related paraphernalia. Drive it Day is organised by the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs, which represents the interests of historic vehicle owners.
Kelvin is vice-Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Historic Vehicle Group.

Kelvin is pictured (left to right) with a Bedford campervan based on a 1966 CALV MkII, a turquoise 1959 PA Velox and a Vauxhall Ventora.

(26th April 2009)

Kelvin attended the Active Luton - 'Active at School' awards at Lea Manor Recreation Centre. Active at School is a new initiative designed to encourage young people and their teachers to take part in physical activities at their local leisure centres. The finale event at Lea Manor showcased a range of activities that a class of 30 ten to eleven year olds had been participating in during the previous six months. Active at school is organised by the Fitness Industry Association.
Centre manager Dave Wright showed Kelvin and the Deputy Mayor around the fitness suite, before the presentation of the awards to the school students.

Kelvin is pictured (below left to right) on the dance mats with the Deputy Mayor of Luton, Councillor Khtija Malik, on an exercise bike at the Profiles health and fitness suite and with some of the school children who took part in the scheme.

(24th April 2009)

Kelvin called in at The Pasque Hospice open day to see the new adult In-patient Unit which is soon to be open.

The unit has now been handed over to Pasque and they are beginning the final fit out of equipment and furnishings. The unit will open in June as planned, but there is still much to do to reach that point.
Kelvin says, "I would like to congratulate the charity on this new state of the art unit and the care that it will enable the hospice to give to its patients. I was very impressed by the unit and its facilities."

Kelvin is pictured (left) in one of the patient rooms in the new unit.

(24th April 2009)

Kelvin attended the launch of Luton Gateway at the Luton Hoo hotel. This is a new organisation that aims to bring together councils, private enterprise and other public agencies to deliver growth and regeneration across Luton and South Bedfordshire. Its principle aims include: improving transport and infrastructure, creating at least 19,000 jobs by 2021, and building another 26,000 homes as well as promoting and marketing the area.
The Luton Gateway is funded by the Department of Communities and Local Government.

Kelvin is pictured (right) at the launch with Luton Council leader, Councillor Hazel Simmons, the Chair of Luton Gateway, David Marlow, Margaret Moran MP and board member Councillor Roy Davis.

(24th April 2009)

Health minister Ben Bradshaw opened the new GP-led Centre at the NHS Luton Walk-in centre. It operates on a mixture of booked and drop-in appointments for registered and unregistered patients who can now access medical treatment 12 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, and without an appointment.
This new GP centre is intended to provide patients access to a GP in areas such as Luton where there is a shortage of GPs the existing GPs are over subscribed.
After opening the GP Centre, Ben then addressed a meeting of Labour Party members in Kelvin's Luton North constituency and answered questions on health and a number of other issues. Kelvin said, "I was very pleased to welcome Ben to Luton North and to thank him for giving up his time to visit and to talk to us."

Ben Bradshaw opens new GP Centre (below) with Kelvin Hopkins MP and Margaret Moran MP. Below right, Ben talks to Luton Labour Party members.

(19th April 2009)

Kelvin was really pleased to attend the victory parade and civic reception for Luton Town Football Club following their trophy win at Wembley, beating Scunthorpe United 2-3. Thousands of people greeted the team on the parade from their Kenilworth Road ground to the town hall where the civic reception was held.
Kelvin says, "Unfortunately, like many Luton fans, I was unable to get a ticket to the final at Wembley but I was delighted by their victory and was pleased to be among the hundreds of fans who welcomed them on the parade through the town."

Kelvin is pictured (below left) with a Luton Wembley 2009 banner, the fans gather outside the Town Hall and (below right) Kelvin with the trophy.

(19th April 2009)

Kelvin attended the Mayor of Luton's charity dinner at the Auction House in support of the Mayor's charities. The Mayor's main charity is the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS). The Mayor and Mayoress are fully aware of the importance of the work of NDCS and the much needed support they offer to families. They experienced the assistance of NDCS when bringing up two of their children who were born deaf. The Mayor has also supported other local charities.
Kelvin says, "As his year as Mayor draws to an end, I would like to congratulate Lakhbir Singh on a very successful year. It has been a pleasure to support Lakhbir both as a friend and as the Mayor of Luton during this past year."

Kelvin is pictured (right) with the Mayor of Luton, Councillor Lakhbir Singh and the Mayoress Mrs Surinder Singh helping to draw the raffle prizes.

(18th April 2009)

Kelvin visited Luton pump manufacturer Hayward Tyler who were established in 1815 and build specialist fluid-filled pumps for use in very demanding conditions, such as on the sea bed for the oil industry energy sector and chemical industries. Based in Kimpton Road, Hayward Tyler are world leaders in motor and pump technology and employ a highly skilled workforce in Luton.
Kelvin says, "It is a real pleasure to see a long-established manufacturing company in Luton doing so well both in the UK and in export markets. They produce very high quality pumps in a specialist market which has enabled them to expand their business and take on new employees. I had a fascinating tour of the factory and was able to see some of the pumps being built. I wish the company all the best for the future and hope they have as long and successful a future as their impressive manufacturing history is in Luton to date has been."

In 2008, Hayward Tyler won the Exporter of the Year Award from the independent business network for exports to China.

Kelvin is pictured on the factory floor (left) with Nick Hurt General Manager of Engineered Products and David Boughey, the Group Managing Director. Kelvin chatting to the Technical Director, Kenneth Sears (right).

(9th April 2009)

Kelvin was invited to meet and speak to Senior Citizens at the St Joseph's Parish lunch club. The lunch club was set up four months ago at the Parish Centre by retired caterer, Phyliss Pinney, who with her team of other volunteers, provide a lunch for pensioners every Tuesday at a cost of £2.00 each. The club has been very successful in the time it has been going, particularly at Christmas and on St Patrick's Day.
Kelvin says, "I was delighted to talk to everyone who had come along to the lunch club and to meet some familiar faces too. I was given a very warm welcome as well as a delicious lunch. I would like to congratulate Phyliss, her volunteers and everyone involved in setting up this lunchtime event and wish the lunch club every success in the future."

Kelvin is pictured (left) chatting to some of the pensioners at the lunch club.

(6th April 2009)

Kelvin attended part of the Innovation Day organised by the University of Bedfordshire at Basepoint Innovation Centre and Business Base on Butterfield Park.
Special guests at the Innovation Day included inventor Trevor Baylis OBE, who is best known for his invention of the wind-up radio. National Innovation Day was also used as the launch for the Butterfield Enterprise Hub (BEH) that is an initiative of the University of Bedfordshire, Luton Borough Council and Basepoint Business Centre, with funding from the East of England Development Agency (EEDA).
It has been set up to help businesses from across the region and north London to access guidance on a case-by-case basis, linking them to the support they need.
Those who have been made redundant and companies who are feeling the strain of the recession are invited to get free advice and support at the opening of the region's newest Enterprise Hub.
Innovation Day was also the launch of the Butterfield Young Innovator Programme for schools in the region. The programme is designed to encourage creativity and the spirit of enquiry in school students, through the application of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
As an approach to raising its visibility in the communities it serves, Basepoint has leased a fleet of cars and wrapped them in an impossible-to-miss livery of green and white. The cars are used by the centre staff for local travel and are intended to be a highly visible reminder to communities of their local Basepoint and its advantages for small businesses.

Kelvin is pictured (top right) in one of the Basepoint cars and (left) with Trevor Baylis and Dr Abdul Al-Jibouri, the University's Innovation Director.

(2nd April 2009)

Kelvin was invited to be the guest speaker at Barnfield West Academy's first business breakfast.

The Academy is hosting a series of business breakfasts to promote its lead specialism - IT and Enterprise - in the local community. Local businesses, community members and feeder schools are being invited to the breakfasts which feature presentations and discussions about the Academy and its work.

Kelvin is pictured (left) at the business breakfast. On the table is an architect's model of the planned new £30 million rebuild of the school.

(1st April 2009)

Kelvin attended the seventh reunion concert of the Challney School's Band. The band is formed of ex-pupils from the two schools; Challney Boys and Challney Girls. These reunion concerts take place every five years.
Some of the players had not opened their instrument cases for the five years since the last reunion concert, others are professional or amateur musicians. Over 400 people have played in the school band over the years and about 60 of them came together at this reunion.
Kelvin says, "I was very delighted to attend the concert and to support the band reunion and I was amazed at the musical standard given the short time that they have had to rehearse. It was a great evening of enjoyable music."

The band is pictured right at the reunion concert at Stopsley Baptist Church.

(28th March 2009)

Kelvin attended a lunch on the Luton campus for the investiture of Baroness Howells of St Davids as the Chancellor of the University of Bedfordshire.
Originally from Grenada, Rosalind Howells was made a life peer in 1999. She was educated at St Joseph's Convent, South West London College and City College in Washington DC.
Baroness Howells said, 'It was a great honour to receive the invitation. I noticed that there is only one other black female University Chancellor and, I thought, if the University of Bedfordshire is bold enough to ask me, other universities might follow.
When I was growing up in the Caribbean in the 1930s and 40s education was seen as the number one goal not only of my generation but of my parents and the generations that went before them too. Education is freedom and power, and any investment in education is a good one.
I am very much looking forward to the challenges and achievements of the role.'

Kelvin is pictured (above) with (l to r) Councillor Raja Saleem (a Governor of the University), Baroness Howells
and Professor Chris Mullard CBE

(27th March 2009)

Kelvin visited Beechwood Primary School and was shown around the school by the Headteacher Ann Housden and congratulated the school on its recent outstanding Ofsted inspection. Kelvin also looked at the plans for the new school building.

Kelvin then answered some interesting questions from pupils, including: 'What is the hardest part of your job?' and 'What are your views on keeping Key Stage 2 SATs?'

Kelvin is pictured (right) talking to pupils and answering their questions, while a press photographer from the Luton Herald and Post takes photos.

(27th March 2009)

Kelvin spoke to the students at Lea Manor High School assembly about democracy, voting and the job of an MP.
The school is about to have elections for a new Head Girl and Head Boy. 15 year 10 pupils had been nominated by their classmates and were now putting themselves forward in an election of all the school's pupils. After talking to the school assembly, Kelvin spoke to and answered questions from the candidates. Kelvin who has been elected as MP for Luton North three times gave the students some tips on how to present themselves and their ideas, public speaking and answering questions from the electorate.
Running a student election to elect a Head Boy and Head Girl is a new process to Lea Manor, and the school hopes that it will encourage students to engage in the voting process in their future adult lives.

Kelvin is pictured outside the school (left) with the year 10 nominated candidates who will face elections for Head Boy and Head Girl.

(25th March 2009)

Kelvin who is Vice Chair of governors of Luton Sixth Form College took part in a tour of some of the college departments with his fellow governors.
They visited Drama and Performing Arts, Graphic Design, Law, Music Technology, Textiles and others.
The college is undergoing a £56 million rebuild which will open its doors in 2010. All the college departments will be moving into the new building. The progress of the new building can be followed on webcams here.
The college has just received an outstanding Oftsted inspection in October.

Kelvin is pictured (below l to r) in the graphic design studio, in a textiles class and in the music technology studio.

(23rd March 2009)

Kelvin was asked to open the new Hallmark card shop at St Dominics Square in Lewsey.
The shop also incorporates the local Post Office. Kelvin says,'I wish this new enterprise every success and hope that both the Post Office and the card shop will enjoy many years of serving local people.'

Kelvin is pictured (right) outside the shop at the opening with the owner, Mr Baz Patel and staff.

(21st March 2009)

Kelvin was very pleased to be invited to be part of the 10th annual Luton St Patrick's Day parade and festival organised by the Luton Irish Forum.
The parade, including St Patrick himself (photo right), started in in Manor Road and made its way past the Town Hall and up to Market Hill where there the traditional presentation of shamrock was made to the Mayor of Luton and guests.
Kelvin says, "I would like to wish all the Irish community and my Irish friends and constituents in Luton a very happy and peaceful St Patrick's Day."

Kelvin is pictured (below left) marching in the parade with the Bedfordshire University pipe band, the leader of Luton Borough Council, Councillor Hazel Simmons and with the Mayor of Luton, Councillor Lakhbir Singh. The parade (below right) is as it passes along George Street towards the Town Hall.

(14th March 2009)

Kelvin was shown around Luton Jobcentre Plus with his case worker, Claire. They also talked to the centre staff and were able to see the benefits call centre in operation.
Constituents having problems with various benefits is one of the many issues that Kelvin has to deal with at his local Advice Surgeries. Kelvin was also able to talk to the centre manager about the increased pressure on the Jobcentre and the staff during the present economic difficulties.

Kelvin and Claire are pictured (left) with one of the Jobcentre Plus staff in the call centre.

(9th March 2009)

Kelvin is always pleased to call in at the open day of the Luton and Dunstable Hospital Radio (LDHR) which broadcasts to the Luton and Dunstable Hospital in his constituency.
LDHR broadcasts 24 hours a day every day of the year and relies on the talents and enthusiasm of its volunteers to provide this service that both patients and staff enjoy. Patients can contact the station with requests from their bedside units.
Kelvin says, "I would like to pay tribute to the team of dedicated volunteers of this hospital radio station. I know what a huge task it is to keep up this standard of broadcasting 24 hours a day."
Kelvin is an occasional guest presenter for LDHR.

Kelvin is pictured (right) at the controls in LDHR Studio 2.

(6th March 2009)

Mesothelioma is a terminal chest cancer that can develop between 15 and 60 years after exposure to asbestos.
Kelvin supported the British Lung Foundation and Mesothelioma UK in their Action Mesothelioma Day which took place this year on Friday 27th February by signing the Mesothelioma Early Day Motion (EDM) in the House of Commons. The motion aims to raise awareness of mesothelioma and calls for better standards of care and treatment for people affected by the disease.
The EDM also appeals for patients to be given guidance in relation to end of life care are and to be given more opportunities to take part in medical trials. These calls follow the results of a survey of mesothelioma patients and their carers conducted by the British Lung Foundation.
A friend from Luton recently died of this terrible disease, so Kelvin was especially concerned to support the Action Day.

Kelvin is pictured (left) signing the Mesothelioma Early Day Motion.

(25th February 2009)

Kelvin supported the diabetes charity Silver Star who campaign for diabetes awareness, by taking a test himself.
At a special event in the Houses of Parliament, Kelvin took the quick and easy Type 2 diabetes test to help raise awareness of the need for public testing for the disease. A new report from Silver Star was launched at the event. The report 'No more Sugar Babes' considers the current level of public understanding of the condition. Staff from the charity were on hand at the event to provide the test and give expert advice on the condition. The NHS spends £1 million an hour on diabetes related illnesses and it is estimated that more than half a million people in the UK may have diabetes without knowing it. The test showed that Kelvin is not diabetic himself but he is concerned about the many people who are diabetic and don't know it. Kelvin says, " We should all make sure that we are tested from time to time and this test is quick and easy."

Kelvin is pictured (right) with a Silver Star volunteer taking a Type 2 diabetes test, which showed his glucose level was 6.3.

(11th February 2009)

Kelvin attended a service for Peace and Dialogue that was held at High Town Methodist Church organised by the Luton Council of Faiths.
The service was held so that people of all faiths could reflect on the recent tragic situation in Gaza and to read a joint statement calling for peace and dialogue in Gaza. A peace postcard that had been designed by a local school girl, in recognition that more that a third of those killed in the recent conflict were children, was signed by all present. The signed postcards were to be sent to the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street.

Kelvin is pictured (left) with members of Luton Council of Faiths, (centre) with the Deputy Mayor of Luton, Councillor Khtija Malik launching the peace postcard and (right) with Isabella Bedlington who drew the design for the card.

(30th January 2009)

Kelvin visited the School Council at St Martin de Porres Primary School in Lewsey.
He spoke to them about his job as the local MP, about voting in elections and about debates and procedures in the House of Commons. The pupils then asked Kelvin questions ranging from ... do you enjoy your work as an MP? [Yes he does], to what are his hobbies. After the questions were over, Kelvin joined pupils and staff for a school dinner. Kelvin says, " Visiting St Martin de Porres and other schools in my Luton North constituency is always a great pleasure, and I hope that the children enjoy these events. I think it is important for young people to learn about our democracy, about voting and about the role of an MP."

Kelvin is pictured below (left) with the School Council (centre) answering questions from the pupils and (right) enjoying his school dinner!

(30th January 2009)

Kelvin spoke to the Labour Club at the University of Hertfordshire.
He gave a very wide-ranging talk to the students about politics in Britain, the economy and the economic situation and the political direction of the Labour Party.
Kelvin then answered questions from the students. There was some discussion about the changing politics in America under President Obama and the politics of democratic socialist countries like Sweden.
Kelvin says," It is good to see young people at University taking an interested in politics and world affairs. I very much enjoyed talking to them about my political beliefs."

Kelvin, who was President of Nottingham University Labour Club in the 1960s, is pictured (left) with students of the Labour Club.

(29th January 2009)

Kelvin visited the opening by Professor Soraya Dhillon of an exhibition celebrating 70 years of the Luton and Dunstable Hospital at the Wardown Park Museum.
The exhibition shows how the hospital, its staff, departments, the equipment, specialties and patients have changed over the past 70 years. Part of the exhibition shows the work of Kelvin's late father, Professor Harold Hopkins, who invented the first fully-flexible fibre-optic endoscope.
Kelvin says, " This is a fascinating exhibition, showing how our hospital - founded before the National Health Service came into existence - has changed over the years as medicine and patient care has advanced. I remember my father showing me the images from his first endoscope; now images from modern endoscopes can be emailed instantly to specialists all other the country or indeed the world."
The hospital was opened (left) 70 years ago by Queen Mary.

Kelvin is pictured (above right) with Professor Soraya Dhillon MBE in front of the part of the exhibition featuring his father's endoscope.

(29th January 2009)

Kelvin showed his backing for Action Medical Research as it steps up its campaign for urgent government action to tackle premature birth.
Twenty five UK babies die each week due to complications arising from premature birth, yet little is known about why early labour happens; or how to prevent it.

People can also back Action Medical Research's call for a Premature Birth Inquiry by visiting the www.standupfortinylives.org.
It is hoped that an inquiry will lead to the development of the first national research strategy for tackling premature birth. The STAND UP for Tiny Lives Campaign is being backed by leading scientists and medical researchers, the National Childbirth Trust and professional bodies, including the Neonatal Nurse Association, British Association of Perinatal Medicine, Neonatal Society and the European Pre-term Labour Group.

Kelvin is pictured (right) with the Tiny Lives Charter.

(27th January 2009)

Barnfield College has opened the first Studio School in the country for 14-16-year-olds who are not responding to traditional learning in school.
Barnfield College was chosen by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) for this field trial out of hundreds that applied. It was chosen because of its nationally acknowledged training status and was Britain's first Beacon status college. The studio school students get hands-on experience running real businesses. Students at Barnfield College already run a successful café and restaurant open to the public. Seven more studio schools will be opened across the country during the next two years. Much of the future studio programmes will be based on the Barnfield model. Each student has a personal curriculum plan supported by their own tutor and business mentor. The studio school benefits enormously from Barnfield's business training expertise and well established industry relationships across Luton and Bedfordshire.

Kelvin is pictured (left) with college principle, Pete Birkett and Councillor Tahir Khan (who holds the education portfolio on Luton Borough Council), with students and staff at the studio school (centre) and (right) chatting to students developing a fund-raising project for the Pasque charity.

(27th January 2009)

Kelvin attended Cultur'Afrika Day Bantu show at the University Students' Union organised by Biso Afrika, a charity that promotes African Culture and champions diversity in British Society.
The event was hosted by Lenny T of BBC 3 Counties radio. There was entertainment from Caye, a Congolese Band and Friends of Sankuru, a traditional African drum band. A documentary about the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Congolese community in Luton was shown and there was food from the Congo.
Friends of Sankuru is a charity teaching African culture through drumming and story telling. It works with African communities both in the UK and overseas. Sankuru is a province of the DR Congo.

Pictured are (below left) Lenny T of BBC 3 Counties radio, Friends of Sankuru drum band (below centre) and (below right) Kelvin speaking (some French) at the event.

(24th January 2009)

Kelvin visited the 100 (Yeomanry) Regiment Royal Artillery (Volunteers) Territorial Army at their barracks in Leagrave.
At the TA Centre, Kelvin was shown a demonstration of a battlefield simulation controlled from a field command station, the repair workshops where the artillery guns and vehicles such as Land Rovers are repaired and prepared for battle. He then examined the field kitchen in operation and master chef at work, and was later to sample the army food.
Kelvin was honoured to bestow medal on solders of the local TA Regiment who have recently returned from active service.

Kelvin is pictured (right) with members of the Regiment in desert fatigues (below left). Kelvin being shown one of the artillery gums with the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Nazir Jessa. Presenting medals to some of the Reservists (below centre). After the tour, food is very welcome served from the field kitchen (below right).

(24th January 2009)

Kelvin attended a public presentation by the Royal Air Force Presentation Team who outlined the role of the RAF, its people, technology and its operations around the Globe. The RAF Presentation Team travels across the UK delivering 70 presentations to a yearly audience of over 8,000.
Watch the RAF Presentation team video here.

Kelvin is pictured (right) with Flt Lt James Lavery of the Luton Air Training Corps and the Mayor of Luton, Councillor Lakhbir Singh behind a model of the BAE Systems Typhoon combat aircraft.

(22nd January 2009)

Kelvin showed his commitment to Holocaust Memorial Day by signing a Book of Commitment in the House of Commons to honour those who perished in the Holocaust.

As in previous years, the Holocaust Educational Trust placed the Book of Commitment in the House of Commons to give MPs the opportunity to pledge that they will uphold the memory of the Holocaust and oppose hatred today.
Kelvin says, "Holocaust Memorial Day marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and it should also serve as an opportunity to remember and reflect on the horrors of the Holocaust and other genocides. Racism and hate are still very much present in our society and together we have a duty to unite our communities and Stand Up to Hatred.
"It is essential to continue to educate youngsters about the Holocaust and encourage them to work together towards a better future".

(20th January 2009)

Kelvin was invited to open the High-Tech Games Room at Barnfield West Academy.
The new Games Room is equipped with the latest Playstation 3, Xbox 360 and Nintendo DS and is part of the Academy's new Reward Programme for good behaviour and achievement. Students will be able to access the Games Room, for a set time, after school or at break or lunchtime when they have accumulated enough Reward Credits under the programme. Apart from the attraction of the new equipment for students, the Games Room is intended to strengthen their interest and achievement in Enterprise and ICT and will be a centre for exciting on-line projects, perhaps with other schools. The Games Room has all the ingredients that makes Barnfield West so successful - a supportive environment, the latest technology and committed and enthusiastic staff and students.
The room is fitted out with a family living room atmosphere - sofas, quality furniture, plants, TV plasmas and PCs. The equipment is to be updated every term.

Kelvin is pictured (right) performing the room opening with Pete Birkett, Chief Executive of Barnfield, Rachel de Souza, the Academy Principle and Vice Principal Andy Hardy (below Left) Kelvin being taught how to use a games console by students and (below right) with the staff project leaders Ms Rehman and Mr Hussain and some of their students.

(16th January 2009)

Kelvin supported the Woodland Trust Christmas card recycling scheme by taking his Christmas cards to one of their recycling bins in the House of Commons.
Kelvin who is a member of the Woodland Trust says, " The Christmas cards are recycled which generates money that the Woodland Trust uses to create new woods in the UK.
Over one billion Christmas cards were sent last year, which is a huge amount!
If everyone recycled just one card it would help the Woodland Trust plant 15,000 trees, so imagine how many trees the Trust could plant if everyone recycles all of their cards this year. "
The Woodland Trust has provided special bins in shops and stores throughout January.

Kelvin is pictured (left) recycling his Christmas cards at one of the bins in the House of Commons.

(11th January 09)

Kelvin called into Leagrave sorting office early in the morning to meet the postal workers at their busiest time of year in the run up to Christmas.
Kelvin believes that the Royal Mail is a vital public service and that it should should remain in the public sector.
Kelvin is a member of the Union of Communication Workers Parliamentary Support Group and has actively supported the CWU at Westminster.

Kelvin is pictured (right) at the Leagrave sorting office having picked up his morning post.

(22nd December 08)

Kelvin visited the local volunteers who manage Bramingham wood for their Christmas celebration of mulled wine and baked potatoes round a camp fire. The woods are owned by The Woodland Trust of which Kelvin is a member and managed by the Bramingham Wood Volunteers. The volunteers coppice about an acre of wood on a 12-year cycle to allow new plant and wood growth. The woods are home to much wildlife including muntjac deer.
Kelvin says, "I always like to support the volunteers who do such a wonderful job of managing these precious woods in Luton North."

Bramingham wood at sunset (below left), Kelvin with the secretary of the Bramingham Wood Volunteers, Pat Higginson (below centre) and Kelvin by the pot of mulled wine on the fire (below right).

(20th December 2008)

Kelvin attended the opening of the extended platforms at Luton Airport Parkway station. All four platforms have been extended by 80 metres to accomadate the new 12-carriage trains that will be on the Thameslink route. This is part of a multi-billion pound Thameslink upgrade programme.
Kelvin said, "Our railways are a precious national asset and have a vital role for the future. The Thameslink Programme is a very exciting prospect and, as a daily passenger on the route for 39 years, I am really looking forward to seeing it happen. The Luton Airport Parkway extension is a welcome step on the way and will be of great benefit to Luton." Like many of his Luton North constituents, Kelvin commutes to London on Thameslink.

Kelvin is pictured with Hazel Simmons, the leader of Luton Borough Council, Margaret Moran MP for Luton South together with representatives of Network Rail and First Capital Connect.

(15th December 08)

Kelvin was delighted to attend the Icknield District Scouts Gang Show and presented them with a cheque for £10,000 from National Lottery Funding. The money will help to provide a new ceiling and new heating for the Scout Hut in Icknield.
Kelvin said, "I would like to congratulate the Scout Group for obtaining this Lottery Funding and although I was not able to stay for all the whole show, I was very impressed by the performance of the Scouts and Beavers that I saw in the first half. I hope to visit the Scouts again to see how the Lottery money has helped them."

Kelvin is pictured (below) presenting an a National Lottery cheque to the Icknield District Scouts.

(8th December 2008)

Kelvin was delighted to attend the Luton Council's Music Services Concert at Stopsley Baptist Church.
The concert brought together The Luton Youth Orchestra, Luton Youth Steel Orchestra, Luton Youth Wind Ensemble, Luton Youth Jazz Orchestra, Luton Youth Cantores and the Luton Schools' Choirs. The major work of the concert was a performance of 'Changes' a piece for all the musicians composed by the Luton Youth Music Service director Stephen Beaven.
Kelvin says, "I would like to congratulate the Music Service for putting on such a wonderful concert and all the young people who took part. It is clear that the town really has a vibrant youth music service of which we can all be justly proud and there are many very talented young musicians in Luton. "

Kelvin is pictured (l to r) with Luke Coomber leader of the Luton Youth Orchestra, Lord Bill McKenzie of Luton and Nazir Jessa, the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire.

(28 November 08)

(21 November 08)

Kelvin was pleased to be asked to help present awards at the fourth annual African Caribbean Achievers (ACA) Awards organised by the African Caribbean Community Development Forum (ACCDF).
Over 100 young people from Luton's primary, secondary, two academies and colleges received awards in recognition of their outstanding achievements in academics, music and sports at the fourth annual African Caribbean Pupil Achievers Awards. The event was compèred by Howard McCalla and Juliet Sharpe from BBC Three Counties Radio. Award winners and other guests were also treated to entertainment from Luton Jazz Orchestra, Luton Youth Steel Orchestra and the Barnfield Academies Choir.

Kelvin is pictured (below left) presenting an award with the evening's compères, (below centre) with Marvellous Akib and Reon Purerin - two winners from William Austin School - and (below right) with other young achievers.

(15th November 2008)

Kelvin is a member of the European Scrutiny Committee a select committee of the House of Commons which assesses the legal and political importance of EU documents and decides which are to be debated. It also monitors the activities of the Council of Ministers and keeps procedural and institutional developments in the EU under review.
A team of the Scrutiny Committee members recently attended a meeting held in the French Senate, the upper house of the Parliament of France (the lower house being the directly elected National Assembly).

Members of the scrutiny committee addressed the Senate and Kelvin made a speech to the 300 strong meeting of representatives from Parliaments across the European Union. He said, "As a sceptic of the left, I may be in a small minority in this august assembly! I do however believe that I represent many fellow citizens of similar views.
Just recently ITV, the British television company, organised a mini-referendum in my town on the Lisbon Treaty.
The vote against the Treaty was more than two to one, so I suggest there is indeed a problem of democratic representation in the EU - a problem of distance between the Union and citizens in its member states.

" In Britain this distance, this problem, increased when a list system determined by proportional representation for EU elections was introduced to replace the single member seat, first-past-the-post system. Election turnout dropped to pathetic levels and voters were turned off.
May I suggest that if first-past-the-post single member seats were introduced, or reintroduced, by the national Parliaments of Europe voter interest would increase. Voters could have an MEP with whom they could identify and whom they could vote out at the next election if they did not agree with their views.
Thank you."

The Palais Du Luxembourg (below left) which houses the French Senate, inside the Senate amphitheater and Kelvin (below right) inside the Senate chamber.

(8th November 2008)

Kelvin attended the official opening of the new Butterfield Campus of the University of Bedfordshire, which houses the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery.
The official opening was performed by the minister for Health Services, Ann Keen MP. The Butterfield Park Campus is situated in a 85-acre business and technology zone and provides dedicated teaching and learning facilities for students. Future developments at Butterfield will include simulation laboratories complete with fully functional operating theatres, ward, and clinic environments.
Butterfield Park campus also boasts a mix of fully-networked computer suites, and a Learning Resources Centre which is home to a digital library with over 2,000 health-related e-journals. Nursing students also have access to the NHS Trust Libraries.
The investment in the new facilities at Butterfield Park highlights the University's commitment to provide both staff and students with the best possible teaching and learning resources. The £1m investment paid off: Butterfield Park has been named Green Office of the Year 2008 in The Office Development Awards competition for the environmental development of the future. The Nursing and Midwifery programmes at the University of Bedfordshire have been ranked fourth best in the country.

Kelvin is pictured (below left) with Ann Keen MP, Baroness Ros Howells, the University's new Chancellor and (below right) two newly qualified midwives, (l to r) Janice Thomas and Mandy Garner.

(14th November 2008)

Kelvin was pleased to support the Bedfordshire African Community Centre BACC fundraising evening.
BACC was set up in 2002 provide support and advocacy to the African Communities living in the Luton and Bedfordshire areas.
It also aims to relieve the suffering of people in the African Sub-Saharan countries who are in need, hardship or distress and assist in the recovery of those who are sick, convalescent, disabled or infirm. The event raised money for BACCs many international projects. Kelvin (photo right) was pleased to welcome people from many different African countries (from the Congo to the Cameroon and from Gambia to Namibia) who have made their homes in Luton to the event. Food from different countries across the continent was provided.

Kelvin is pictured (below left) with the director of BACC, Bony Shamalo and two of the performers.

(31st October 2008)

Kelvin met lung cancer specialist nurses from across the UK to hear about the invaluable work they do in supporting patients with the disease. The nurses were in Westminster for Lung Cancer Awareness Month to call on the government to ensure every lung cancer patient has access to a specialist lung cancer nurse.
Lung cancer specialist nurses play a vital role in supporting patients and their families, but unfortunately there just aren't enough nurses compared to the number of patients diagnosed. Lung cancer kills more than 34,000 people every year and more women die from lung cancer than breast cancer and the disease kills more people than breast cancer, prostate cancer, bladder cancer and leukaemia combined.
Kelvin says, "Around 600 people in our area are diagnosed with lung cancer each year. I have no doubt that having access to a specialist nurse, like Maria Guerin, can make a world of difference for patients and their families. They work tirelessly to support patients when they need it most. Increasing the numbers of specialist nurses would mean more patients could have the dedicated advice and care they deserve."
An extra 200 lung cancer specialist nurses in the UK to bring specialist nurse provision in line with some of the other major cancers. You can read a briefing about lung cancer specialist nurses in this pdf.

Kelvin is pictured (above right) with Dame Gill Oliver, chair of the United Kingdom Lung Cancer Coalition (UKLCC).

(29th October 2008)

Kelvin joined with Friends of the Earth to call on the government to boost the roll out of small scale renewable energy systems such as wind and water turbines and solar panels.
Kelvin backs the introduction of a renewable energy tariff (sometimes called a feed in tariff) which would guarantee a long-term, premium payment to households, businesses and communities that generate their own energy from renewable energy sources.
Kelvin says, "The government must act now and introduce a renewable energy tariff for local renewable energy schemes. Local people and businesses that want to invest currently aren't given the support they need. A renewable energy tariff is a simple and cost-effective way for the government to make sure they are properly rewarded. I'll do everything I can to support this vital measure. If we are to meet the target of 80% reduction in the UK greenhouse gases as announced by Climate Change Minister Ed Miliband last week, green small scale renewable energy will be vital."

Kelvin is pictured (above) signing his backing for the measure on a solar panel.

(14th October 2008)

Kelvin showed his support for the work of the charity Guide Dogs during Guide Dog Week (6th to 12th October) - which aims to raise awareness of the work of guide dogs - by visiting their display in the Arndale Mall, Luton.
Kelvin was guided by trainee guide dog Kera around some obstacles that had been set up. Guide Dogs have been providing dogs for blind and partially-sited people for over 75 years, and there are currently 4,500 working guide dogs in Britain, including hearing dogs for the deaf and dual-purpose dogs for the disabled. The charity also breeds over 1,000 puppies a year and most are labrador/retriver crosses like Kera. The charity is also raising awareness of how sighted people can help blind and partially-sighted people who need a bit of help getting around even if they have a dog or use a cane.

Kelvin is pictured (below left) with trainee guide dog Kira. The dog uses her skill to guide Kelvin around obstacles at the Guide Dogs display(below centre).

(10th October 2008)

Kelvin took up the Skip 2 B Fit challenge along with children and staff at St Joseph's Catholic Junior School.
The children can count the number of skips they can do within two minutes with specially designed digital skipping ropes. After a few practice skip, Kelvin skipped with the children for two minutes, Kelvin then presented awards to the top skippers, the best effort, the most improved and the top teacher. Much to his surprise, Kelvin managed 36 skips in his two minutes. There is a leader board of his fellow MPs who have taken part in the challenge at the Skip 2B Fit website here. John McCormack founder of Skip 2B Fit said that it was great that Kelvin took up the two minutes Skip 2 B Fit challenge as this gives a great message to the children to go home to their parents, to encourage them to exercise at home.
All the children who took part in Skip 2 B Fit were given a tub of blueberries to help promote healthy eating as well as fitness. Kelvin says, "I congratulate all the children at St Joseph's school who took part and skipped so enthusiastically". Since it was founded five years ago Skip 2B Fit has visited over 500 schools up and down the country.

Kelvin is pictured (right) during his two minute skipping and (below left) with some of the best skippers and the top teacher and (below right) with Skip 2 B Fit founder John McCormack.

(6th October 2008)

Kelvin attended the Team Read Summer Reading Challenge awards 2008. The scheme gives children encouragement to reed during the school summer holidays and gets them using their local Luton library. Children who signed up to the scheme got medals - bronze, silver and gold - for the number of books they read and each library had one overall winner who was presented with a book.
This summer, children in Luton and Bedfordshire Libraries read over 95,000 books in just seven weeks and every book read raised money for Keetch Cottage Children's Hospice. Thanks to sponsorship from Costa coffee a total of £6,000 was raised for the hospice.

Kelvin is pictured (left) with the Mayor of Luton, Councillor Lakhbir Singh and some of the challenge winners with their books.

(4th October 2008)

The Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, came to Luton to unveil a memorial to PC Jon Henry who was fatally stabbed while carrying out his duty in Luton town centre on 11th June 2007. Gordon Brown and Jon's widow, Mary Henry led the tributes at the memorial erected by the Police Memorial Trust.
In his speech, the Prime Minister said, "Winston Churchill, one of the great Prime Ministers who took us through so many difficult times, said courage was the greatest quality of all because he said upon courage everything else depends; our safety, our security, and our livelihoods." more...

Kelvin says, "It is absolutely right that the whole town, and indeed the whole country, is commemorating the tragic death of PC Jon Henry. With the plaque in his memory, he will always be remembered by all of us and by future generations too.
It was a kind gesture by the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, to attend this important event and shows his genuine concern about knife crime and his appreciation of the bravery of our police officers in dealing with violent crime.
I wish once again to pay my respects to Jon Henry, a very brave man and to his family and police colleagues."
The memorial is outside BHS in George Street close to the spot where PC Jon Henry died.

Gordon Brown speaking at the unveiling (below left) and laying a floral tribute (below right). Kelvin lays his flowers watched by the Mayor of Luton, Councillor Lakhbir Singh, Jon's widow Mary holding her daughter Maggie. The memorial (below right).

(3rd October 2008)

Kelvin attended the Luton Borough Council "Celebrating Excellence" awards, a partnership between the University of Bedfordshire and Luton council. Council staff working in Housing and Social Care were nominated by their colleagues and by service users and received awards for their outstanding work as did students of the University. Kelvin says, "I am very pleased to support these awards for council staff who are often working in difficult and challenging jobs. There was a great atmosphere at the event and it was a pleasure to be there."

Kelvin is pictured (right) congratulating award winner Tara Hopkins (no relation!).

(2nd October 2008)

Kelvin attended Groundwork Luton & South Bedfordshire 2008 annual review. Two of the important projects that Groundwork is involved with in Luton North are the Marsh Farm landscape improvements as part of the New Deal for Communities and the Great Bramingham Park play area.
Groundwork is working with the Marsh Farm Community Development Trust (MFCDT) to transform and landscape the whole estate including play areas, highways, parking areas and communal areas. Groundwork has been commissioned by Luton Borough Council to develop a plan for Bramingham park. As part of the community consultation questionnaires were sent to 2,400 households in the area.

Kelvin is pictured (left with) Groundwork Chairman, Neville Reyner CBE DL (centre) and Executive Director Steve Harvey (right).

(1st October 2008)

Kelvin was pleased to open Tyre City a new tyre retail centre on Madford Retail Park in Dunstable Road.
October sees the launch of Tyre Safety Month by TyreSafe who are the UK-s leading organisation on tyre safety. They hope to raise awareness of tyre safety and the fact that worn, defective or damaged tyres are a major road safety risk. Research by TyreSafe, shows that nearly three quarters of all cars on Britain's roads have under-inflated tyres, which can adversely affect a vehicles handling and also wastes fuel. They are encouraging motorists to check the condition of their tyres to ensure that they are safe.

Kelvin is pictured (right) officially opening the centre with the Chief Executive of Tyre City.

(19th September 2008)

Kelvin visited Barnfield West Academy with council leader Hazel Simmons and Councillor Tahir Khan who holds the education portfolio on the council executive. Kelvin says, " I was very pleased to visit the school which has been transformed over the past year. Standards have been pushed up which is now giving every student the chance of a good education. I would like to congratulate the Principle, Rachel de Souza, Barnfield College who are the sponsors, the staff who are motivated and have put in such a huge effort and to the year 11 students who have worked so hard to obtain a brilliant set of GCSE exam results this year. I know the Academy will now go from strength to strength. I am pleased that the Academy remains wholly in the public education sector with Barnfield College as its sponsor."
The success is showing in the exam results. Last year, only 2% of students obtained 3 A* - A in their GCSEs - this year it is 39%.
The Academy is to be rebuilt in a £30 million state-of-the-art building. The architects have been consulting with the staff, students and the community on the design and the building work is due for completion in 2011.

Kelvin is pictured (right) with the Academy Principle Rachel de Souza, Councillor Tahir Khan and Councillor Hazel Simmons. In a science lab (below left) and in an IT suite (below right).

(19th September 2008)

Kelvin was asked to be one of the judges at the Young People Of The Year Awards (YOPEY) for Bedfordshire. The contest 'reveals, recognises and rewards' young people aged 10-25 who make a difference by giving to others and are unsung heroes.
YOPEY started in Hertfordshire in 2004 and has since spread across neighbouring counties with young people winning £40,000 and sharing their prize money with others in the community. This is the third YOPEY in Bedfordshire and is the first open to young people, across the whole country.
Kelvin says, " I would like to congratulate the founder of YOPEY, Tony Gearing, on this fantastic initiative that both recognises and rewards young people who have helped others in the community. I would like to congratulate all the finalists - and I can say that it was very difficult as a judge to pick the final winners of this contest."

Kelvin is pictured (below left) announcing some of the winners, with all the YOPEY finalists (below right) and with finalists from Luton (below left), Gavin O'Brian aged 16, Sabath Shazia aged 18 and Chris Wilson (below right) aged 17.

(18th September 2008)

Kelvin visited Luton Borough council's waste transfer station in Kingsway to see the recycling of household waste. The operation is managed by a waste management company - Waste Recycling Group (WRG) on behalf of the council. The recyclables come into the centre and are sorted. As Luton households recycle more of their rubbish, the council has invested in new equipment to sort and process recyclables. The recycling facility has a capacity of 25,000 tonnes of recyclables a year.

Kelvin is pictured (below left) with Trevor Smart of WRG, Mick Wright, head of waste management for Luton borough council, Lord Bill McKenzie, Council leader Hazel Simmons and councillors Don Worlding and Lynda Ireland. Kelvin examines the pallets of compacted cans (below right).

You can read more about recycling centres in this pdf.

(18th September 2008)

Kelvin talked to the children at Icknield Primary School in their morning assembly about elections and about his role as the MP for Luton North.
The school had been having elections to elect pupils form each class to the school council. Kelvin was invited to announce the election winners and handed the successful candidates their 'Councillor' and 'Vice Councillor' badges.
Kelvin is pictured (below left) handing out the badges and (below right) with some of the pupils elected to the school council.

(17th September 2008)

Kelvin was invited by the Luton Bangladesh Youth League to their Iftar at the Centre for Youth and Community Development (CYCD). An Iftar is the evening meal for breaking the daily fast during the Islamic month of Ramadan. Traditionally, a date is the first thing to be consumed during Iftar when the fast is broken.
Kelvin says, "I was please to attend this Iftar gathering with some of Luton's Bangladeshi community during Ramadan which is a very important time for Muslims."

(15th September 2008)

Kelvin was honoured to be asked to be the chief guest at the Onam festival organised by the Luton Malayalee Association. Malayalam is the language of Kerala, the south India state. Onam is the biggest and the most important festival of Kerala. It is a harvest festival and is celebrated with joy and enthusiasm all over the state by people of all communities. According to popular legend, the festival is celebrated to welcome King Mahabali, whose spirit is said to visit Kerala at the time of Onam.
Kelvin says, "I was very pleased to be invited to the first Onam festival in Luton. I congratulate the organisers of the festival and hope it will be an annual event for the Keralites living in Luton."

Kelvin was asked to light the ceremonial lamp (below left) to start the celebrations. Onam is celebrated with flowers and sadhya (Kerala food). The flowers, known as an onapookkalam, are decorated on the floor to welcome King Mahabali (below right).

(14th September 2008)

(12th September 2008)

Kelvin visited the local Luton Macca Bingo in Skimpot Road to launch their give-away of free energy efficient light bulbs for their club members. Across the country, Mecca will be giving away two million energy saving bulbs which would save enough Co2 every year to fill 149,000 double-decker buses.
Kelvin says, "I congratulate Mecca Bingo on this initiative. Not only are the energy efficient light bulbs helping the club members save money on their electricity bills, but it is helping to reduce the UK's Co2 emissions."
Kelvin is pictured (below) at the Mecca Bingo club with the packs of energy saving light bulbs.

(9th September 2008)

Kelvin is pictured (below left) cutting the ribbon to the new unit (with l to r Nurse Florence Smartson, Healthcare Assistant Mandy Barker, Kelvin, Nurse Petia Jamalidini and Healthcare Assistant Kay Smith) and being shown the new endoscope by Paul Hagan, the lead clinician at the unit (below right).

(9th September 2008)

Kelvin went along to the staff quiz night at the Luton and Dunstable Hospital in aid of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) appeal. UNISON had donated the prizes and Kelvin joined the UNISON team for the quiz. And - yes they were the winning team! Kelvin said, "It was very much a team effort and I was pleased to join the hospital staff and help them in their fundraising. It was a most enjoyable evening in very jolly company."
Kelvin is pictured (below left) drawing the raffle.

(6th September 2008)

As an Honorary Fellow of the University of Bedfordshire, Kelvin attended the annual Civic Graduation Ceremony, which took place at Luton Parish Church of St Mary.
The University was conferring three honorary degrees as well as degrees for graduating students of the Business school.
Kelvin says, "I would like to congratulate the university now entering its third academic year as the University of Bedfordshire, the recipients of the honorary degrees - Rev Canon Nick Bell, HRH Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah and Mr David Young - and all the students who graduated today."

Kelvin is pictured below in the robes of an Honorary Fellow of the University of Bedfordshire.

(5th September 2008)

Read a copy of Kelvin's letter to the Post office constutaion team here.

(2nd September 2008)

Kelvin attended the soil cutting ceremony at Luton Sixth Form College as work started on a new £56 million expansion of the college. The new building at the Bradgers Hill campus will include sports facilities which will be used by local teams and clubs as well as the 2,300 college students. The work is due to be completed for the new academic year in September 2010.
The College has a reputation for excellence and has been awarded the coveted Beacon Status by the Learning and Skills Council. It has its biggest intake of new students in its history and has to place them on a waiting list. Kelvin, who is Vice–Chair of the college governors said, "I was delighted to help perform the soil cutting ceremony for the college. Today marks the beginning of a stunning new building for a stunningly brilliant college. Luton Sixth Form College has performed brilliantly in recent years and this new building will see it go onto new heights."

Kelvin is pictured (below left) in the digger and (below right) with (l to r) the college vice-principal Sally Leech, principal Simon Kitchener and the project managers.
(23rd July 2008)

Kelvin attended the annual Marsh Farm Festival which was held on Freemans Green on Saturday 19th July. There was music, stall and fun activities for kids as well as information stalls run by various organisations in the Marsh farm area.

Kelvin is pictured (below left) with local councillor Roy Davis, in the Marsh Farm Community Development Trust Marquee, at the Marsh Farm Sure Start stall (below centre) having a go at the boy's lucky dip! And (below right) with some members of the Marsh Farm Youth Forum (MFYF) committee. MFYF was set up just over a year ago to ensure that young people have a say in improving the Marsh Farm Community. The Youth Forum has already signed up over 180 young people from Marsh Farm and is coordinated by a youth committee of twelve.

Kelvin met Zen Audu a jazz saxophonist who has just won one of six new jazz scholarships. The new scholarship scheme for outstanding jazz students was announced by theJazz. The scholarships aim to support and showcase the best of the UK's emerging jazz talent and has given awards of £1,000 to three outstanding jazz musicians in year one. These awards will be used to assist in the musical and promotional development of the successful scholars.

The award ceremony was held in the Atrium, Portcullis House in the House of Parliament and was supported the All Party Parliamentary Jazz Appreciation group (of which Kelvin is a vice-chair) and Jazzwise magazine.

(16th July 08)

Kelvin took part in the 12th annual interfaith walk around Luton organised by Luton Council of Faiths.
The walk, which visits different places of worship in the town is a celebration of the spiritual and cultural diversity of Luton. The walk started from the Chaplaincy of the University of Bedfordshire, then went to Wigmore Church and then to Central Mosque where Kelvin joined the walk and spoke. It then moved onto the Guru Nanak Gurdwara (Sikh temple) in Dallow Road. Gurdwara means "the doorway to the Guru". All visitors to the Gurdwara are offered Karah Parshad which is made of flour, butter and sugar in equal proportions and is blessed by the Guru.

Kelvin is pictured (below left) at Central Mosque and (below right) at The Gurdwara with the Chair of the Luton Council of Faiths, Zafar Khan and the Mayor of Luton, Councillor Lakhbir Singh.
(12th July 08)

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