AS I am not seeking re-election to the European Parliament this June after ten years as your MEP, may I thank the people of Malvern for their encouragement and support throughout this time.

Coming fresh to politics from the real world of business has been great learning curve. It has been a privilege to serve the county where I was born, to have helped drive the agenda for EU reform, and to know that other EU countries recognise the role Conservative MEPs actively perform in Brussels.

There is still much to be done, and the region needs a strong team of MEPs to continue to engage in the issues – not some minority moaners on the sidelines trying to cash in on a protest vote against certain antics in Westminster. Conservatives have won the past two European elections: if we win this one, we will not only stay strong in Europe – such success can hopefully trigger a General Election back in the UK. Voters are crying out for change, and an early election would give us the chance to secure it.

PHILIP BUSHILL-MATTHEWS MEP, Harbury, Leamington Spa.