It was the third Seafarers Service that I have been to on Sunday and I was pleased to see so many people there. Unlike last year when the Dean and Mayor were soaked by the waves, it was a gorgeous sunny day and there were crowds of people watching as the wreath was thrown into the sea.

Remembering all those people who have put their lives at risk, whether it be at sea or on land, is extremely important and it is very moving to see how many people are turning out for the homecoming parades for our troops from Afghanistan. I am really pleased to support the Royal British Legion’s General Election Manifesto, most of which is in our own manifesto anyway, and it is disgraceful how our armed forces have been treated both in the lack of equipment and accommodation by this government. Only 52% of families living in armed forced accommodation see commented that their accommodation is good. That means 48% are not and it is obvious from some of the armed forces houses in Portsmouth that little money is being spent on keeping them up to scratch.

I will be wearing my poppy with pride this year along with everyone else and we look forward to the time when all our troops are home safe.

You can find out more about The Royal British Legion’s General Election Manifesto at www.timetodoyourbit.org.uk