She spoke about how important it was to get out campaigning amongst the public and also the importance of getting young people interested in voting. Cheryl said that young people currently feel cut off from the political process due to lack of employment opportunities. She also voiced her concerns on the high interest rates that banks charge small businesses starting up, making it difficult if not impossible for them to survive.

The Women Chainmakers’ Festival was also mentioned and we were reminded of the importance of this event. Next year will mark the 100th anniversary of the women chainmakers successfully winning a decent living wage, so the 2010 festival will have some special events to commemorate the anniversary of this occasion.

Cheryl said that the campaign to save those public sector job losses threatened within the Telford area can be publicised through the TUC blogs and mailing lists.

It was a breath of fresh air listening to Cheryl and last but not least she very kindly brought us biscuits and chocolates to sustain us during the meeting.