Growing enthusiasm

9:58am Friday 17th August 2007

I WAS pleased to be able to go along to the annual Basingstoke Flower and Vegetable Show at the Walled Garden in Down Grange to see the tremendous display of entries received this year.

BBC Radio 4 Gardeners' Question Time took the opportunity to record their programme at the show. I understand this is the eighth year they have done this.

In Basingstoke, we have more than 1,000 allotments tended by an army of gardening enthusiasts.

The display at the show is ample evidence that we have a proud tradition of horticulture in this part of north Hampshire.

In the past, this much-loved produce show was arranged by the borough council.

This year, the organisation has been passed over to a newly-formed committee of volunteers.

The team has worked tirelessly to ensure the continuing success of this event. As a result of their enthusiasm and commitment, the number of people entering flowers, vegetables, home baking, art and photographic work has more than doubled this year, and more than a dozen cups were awarded to the top-ranking exhibitors.

• BASINGSTOKE is proud to be home to CORGI, the national watchdog for gas safety.

As a result of this link, I have become interested in some of the issues connected with the use of gas appliances in the home, particularly the problems around carbon monoxide poisoning.

Last year, I was asked to become co-chairman of the Parliamentary Gas Safety Group.

Most people are aware that any work which involves a gas appliance must be done by a CORGI-registered installer.

The best way to make sure that your installer is properly trained is to ask to see their CORGI ID card before they start work.

If you are have any questions you can contact CORGI on 0800 915 0485.

CORGI estimates there could be as many as 20,000 people working illegally as a gas fitter in the UK.

With carbon monoxide poisoning claiming needless lives, using an illegal gas worker could be needlessly putting yourself and your family at risk.

• IF YOU need to contact Maria you can call her office at the House of Commons on 0207 219 5749, e-mail millerm@parliament.uk or write to her at The House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA.

Appointments to see Maria at her regular advice bureau can be booked on the above number.

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