Sarah Russell, elected earlier this year as Congleton's first Labour MP for Parliament, yesterday gave her first full speech in the House of Commons chamber.

Under Parliamentary convention, new MPs must make their 'maiden' speech before they're able to contribute to debates – and with 335 brand new MPs elected in July, the queue to speak in the chamber has stretched out for some months.

In Sarah's speech she praised not only the beauty of the Congleton constituency – describing its rolling countryside, historic towns and villages, and vibrant communities – but also its strong community spirit and the contribution of our many voluntary groups, including sports clubs, youth groups, environmental groups, and mental health initiatives.

She also highlighted the role of churches and secular organizations in providing food support to those in need and noted the support Christian community received from the previous MP, Fiona Bruce.

Sarah commended the work of volunteers behind the One World event in Alsager, and local Pride events in Congleton, Sandbach, Alsager, and Holmes Chapel, emphasising her commitment to advocating for her equality and inclusion.

She also paid tribute to the local feminist campaigners who lobbied and fundraised for the statue of local suffragist Elizabeth Woolstenholme Elmy, and committed to continue her legacy as a women's rights activist by addressing the gender pay gap, advocating for parental rights and equality, and fighting for the safety of young people who experience fear and violence.

Sarah pledged to champion the needs of everyone in the constituency, including families of children with Special Educational Needs and disabilities, older people frustrated with long NHS waiting lists, and homeowners impacted by leasehold and 'fleecehold' issues.

Sarah said "I will work across this House to stand up for the incredible, entrepreneurial, community-minded people and businesses of the beautiful place that is Congleton constituency."

A full transcript of the speech is attached and a video can be viewed here