Chaotic scenes in Eltham High Street as the Mayor of London hit the campaign trail.  He called in at Demelza's charity shop and bought a book before heading to see the local printer and then calling in at the Eltham Grill.

I frequently have discussions with senior politicians and officials to try to get things done for the people of Eltham. Here I am gripping Boris' hand, refusing to let go until he promises to work on a solution to the chaos of the Blackwall Tunnel!

Along with thousands of other residents, I signed a petition to the Prime Minister in protest at plans to cut the subsidy to the London boroughs for the Freedom pass - a vital lifeline for residents aged 60+ or disabled, living in London.  The government agreed a 3 year funding formula and then decided to tear up the commitment and reduce the grant by £29 million.

The response can be seen here.  What it proves is that the government neither cares nor wishes to listen.  In short, it says the cut will proceed regardless of public opposition, and that London gets more than its fair share.  If only that were true!  Strange, I always thought that Londoners subsidise certain other parts of the UK, including those where university courses, hospital car parks, care of the elderly and prescriptions are all free.  Silly me.

I am delighted that going through Eltham today there were quite a few places flying the England flags and bunting, proving that it's not only Boris who is celebrating St George's Day today.  It's time to reclaim our national day and take pride in our heritage.  And in these particularly gloomy days, we all need an excuse for a celebration.  So, have a good St George's Day and belt out Jerusalem to your heart's content!