Senior citizens quiz Nick Herbert in Henfield

Arundel & South Downs MP Nick Herbert was in Henfield on Friday afternoon (23 January) to meet the residents of Sobell Court.

During his visit, Mr Herbert took part in a ‘question and answer' session with residents, covering a range of topics including the threat to local hospitals, the provision of GP services, charges for health screening, rising council tax and utility bills, taxes on pensions, national debt and the current economic crisis.

Mr Herbert also took the opportunity to view some of the residents' accommodation with Social Club Chairman Mary Moore.

Built in 1973, Sobell Court is a sheltered housing complex with 24 flats for older people.  The accommodation is located in Church Street, close to the village centre and provides a lounge, laundry, guest facilities and garden.  It is managed by Saxon Weald, a firm that owns and runs more than 5,000 properties across Sussex and Hampshire.

Mrs Moore commented: "It was very kind of Nick to come along to talk to the elderly residents.  All the residents appreciated him giving us his valuable time.  It was a very productive meeting, particularly as he offered to take up issues on our behalf which affect our quality of life and care."

Nick Herbert commented: "I was delighted to meet the residents of Sobell Court.  We had a very lively and interesting discussion on a range of local and national issues.  It was also clear that some of the residents are unhappy about the way their water bills are calculated, so I will be taking up this issue with Southern Water on their behalf. 

"I am also meeting with the Chairman and Chief Executive of Saxon Weald in the next few weeks and will relay the views which residents expressed to me."

Mr Herbert added: "The residents made me feel extremely welcome, and I particularly enjoyed my tea and cake!  I hope that I will have an opportunity to visit again soon."

Mr Herbert was joined at Sobell Court by Horsham District Councillor Sheila Matthews.

Ends

Notes for Editors

1.The photograph shows Nick Herbert taking part in the question and answer session.