I WRITE in response to recent letters published regarding the Tatton MP, George Osborne.

As his constituency agent for the past 18 years, and now a local councillor representing Knutsford residents, I see the intimate side of George’s constituency work.

It is correct that he doesn’t hold “open”, drop-in surgeries – they are by appointment only.

This is first and foremost for safety reasons on police advice.

Sadly, like all MPs, George occasionally receives threatening communications from malicious individuals. As we saw with the tragic death of Jo Cox MP, these words sometimes turn into action, with devastating consequences.

It would be wrong to ignore police advice, and put him, his staff, or innocent members of the public at unnecessary risk.

Constituents ask for George’s help with a wide variety of problems.

If the issue is urgent (eg a medical or benefit problem), this is best dealt with by George immediately instead of waiting for an appointment.

He regularly receives letters and emails from constituents thanking him for his prompt intervention to resolve their problems.

Surgeries are not only held in Knutsford they also take place in Wilmslow and Northwich in order to accommodate constituents who live nearby, travelling to people’s homes if necessary.

George and his family are regularly in the constituency at weekends, staying at their home near Macclesfield, and can often be seen chatting with constituents.

He holds regular private meetings with council officials, Cheshire MPs and other local bodies and voluntary groups that are not publicised, in addition to his many public engagements.

Indeed, his recent quick intervention over the proposals to downgrade A&E at Macclesfield Hospital led to the plans being overturned.

Much of an MP’s constituency casework goes on quietly in the background all year round.

Individual problems, are by definition, private and confidential.

I am not a paid member of George’s staff – I am employed by the Tatton Conservative Association.

I have worked alongside George for most of my working life.

I see a dedicated and hardworking individual, standing up for the interests of his constituents on the national stage, whilst giving care and attention to individuals who contact him for help.

Constituents are NOT being short changed. We are lucky to have such an advocate.

Cllr Hayley Wells-Bradshaw Chelford Road Knutsford