Karen Bradley: In this week's column the Moorlands MP has given her thoughts on the Platinum Jubilee and some upcoming local events.

Last week Her Majesty the Queen celebrated her 96th birthday and I know we are all looking forward to celebrating her Platinum Jubilee, giving thanks to Her Majesty the Queen for 70 years of devoted service to the nation and to the Commonwealth. 

The Platinum Jubilee is an opportunity for communities and people to come together in celebration, and I hope that as many Moorlanders as possible will participate in this landmark moment. 

I was therefore delighted to plant a tree recently for the Jubilee as part of The Queen's Green Canopy. I was joined by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Admiral Sir Trevor Soar to plant a fruit tree outside Biddulph Town Hall. Thank you to everyone concerned who took part and also to those who helped find the right spot for the tree and arranged for the protective shield.

I would also like to take this opportunity to remind local residents of a special fund-raising event to raise money for the area.  

The Three Town Trail Challenge, launched by the community fund 'We Love The Moorlands' involves covering a total of 39.5 miles, the length of the route between the three Moorlands towns, under your own steam during May and June 2022.

Participants will receive a Three Town Trail t-shirt to wear for the challenge. There are lots of competitions too so thank you to all the local businesses who have kindly donated prizes for these.