This is the first opportunity I have had to confirm to readers of this magazine my decision not to seek the Conservative nomination at the next General Election.  I have been moved by kind words expressed in the messages I have received, whether they came from those who supported me through the ballot box or otherwise.

This has been a difficult decision.  I’m still loving the role as your Member of Parliament, so it’s not because I’ve lost interest or am exhausted, nor do I fear losing the election.  In fact, I believe the Conservatives under Rishi Sunak's leadership, will be highly competitive at the next election.

Throughout my working life, whether by coincidence or not, it has divided into ten-year chunks. I have proudly served as the Parliamentary Spokesman for the Ludlow constituency for over 20 years, at the time of the next election, I will have served nearly 20 years as your Member of Parliament. I spent close to 10 years on the frontbenches and another 10 years on the backbenches, half of which I have served on the Environmental Audit Committee and will do so for five years as Chairman.

When I was first elected as your MP, I was 46 years old. Next month, I will turn 65. I still hope to have another decade ahead to remain active. However, the role of an MP demands a significant level of energy and commitment, both in assisting thousands of constituents each year and in advocating for important issues within Parliament and beyond.

After careful consideration, I have come to the realisation that I cannot be confident of maintaining the required vitality, motivating both myself and others to the necessary level throughout the entirety of the next Parliament, especially as I enter my 70s.

It is important to me to be honest and transparent about the reasons behind my decision. Over the years, I have been incredibly fortunate to have received huge support from many residents of South Shropshire. I am immensely grateful for the approximately 500,000 letters, emails, and calls that I have had the pleasure of responding to during my tenure spanning two decades.

I will continue to serve to the full and to the best of my abilities until the dissolution of this Parliament, as determined by the Prime Minister.

Being the MP for the Ludlow constituency has been the greatest honour of my life. I am eternally grateful to all those who placed their trust in me, allowing me the privilege to represent them.  Thank you for entrusting me with this great role.