CAN I firstly offer my congratulations to my successor, Sheryll Murray, and wish her well as she goes to Westminster as the Member of Parliament for South East Cornwall.
It has been a privilege and honour to represent the constituency over the past 13 years, during which time I have been wonderfully supported by staff both in the constituency and in London and without whom it would have been impossible to do the job.
Can I also publicly thank my family and, in particular, my wife Janet, whose support, patience, understanding and forgiveness I have needed regularly in what has been, at times, a very demanding period of our married life.
I have greatly appreciated the opportunity of contributing a weekly column in the Cornish Times which provided a valuable means of communicating with constituents.
Finally, I would like to thank all those who have sent me emails, letters and cards wishing me well in my retirement.
COLIN BREED
Saltash