Congleton MP, Sarah Russell, has raised the question of increased National Insurance contributions for local hospice, St Luke's following the Budget.

The MP has spoken to both the Prime Minister and the Health Secretary in person and she is working closely with Andrew Cooper MP for Mid Cheshire on the matter.

And she has assured residents that she will continue to raise the issue with ministers.

Cheshire East councillor, Nicola Cook, wrote to Sarah Russell Labour MP for the Congleton constituency, following the recent Budget and the MP responded immediately to the concerns.

"I appreciate the high regard and great affection with which St Luke's is held in the local community. I met with various members of the senior team at St Luke's on Friday last week," said Sarah Russell MP.

"They drew my attention to this, I assured them that I would take it up with ministers. On Monday I spoke to both the Prime Minister and the Health Secretary in person to raise these matters.

"I am also working closely with Andrew Cooper, MP for Mid Cheshire, as the hospice is in his constituency. Please be assured that both I take this very seriously and will continue to raise it with ministers."