Steve Darling: The best of Torbay is on display

With Parliament in recess, I’ve been making the most of the opportunity to get out and about across Torbay.

From meeting residents on the doorstep to visiting local community groups, it’s been a busy and rewarding few weeks.

A huge thank you to everyone who packed out last week’s public meeting to protect Torbay’s cardiology services. It was powerful to stand alongside fellow speakers and residents from across the Bay, all united by one clear message: we must safeguard our vital cardiac care.

The strength of feeling in the room was undeniable. Our community is speaking with one voice, and it is essential that NHS leaders listen. Cardiac care is not just a service. It is a lifeline, and it must remain in Torbay.

Later in the week, I attended the NHS Devon Integrated Care Board public meeting in Exeter. I welcomed the assurance from health bosses that there are no plans to reinstate the previous proposal to move pPCI coronary care to Exeter. However, I remain disappointed that we are still waiting for clarity on what their future plans actually look like.

It has now been two months since the original proposals were paused. That is more than enough time to provide answers. Our community deserves transparency, and we must remain vigilant as we await the next steps.

Looking ahead, the Adult Social Care and Health Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Board will be meeting this Wednesday (6 August) at The Forum, Riviera International Conference Centre in Torquay. Members of the committee will receive an update from NHS Devon on the draft case for change and the timeframes for public engagement. 

While I’ve been busy working here in Torbay, my team in Westminster attended the Lionesses parade, celebrating their incredible success in the Women’s Euros. From all the photos and stories they’ve shared, it’s clear what a truly momentous occasion it was. People of all ages turned out in the thousands to show their love and admiration for this remarkable team.

The Lionesses’ success means far more than just a trophy. They’ve given the nation a renewed sense of pride and hope, showing what can be achieved through determination and teamwork. Their victory has broken down gender barriers in sport, inspiring a new generation of girls to take up football and showing boys that girls belong on the pitch every bit as much as they do.

What stood out most about the parade was not just the number of fans, but the incredible positivity and unity that ran through it. Seeing people from all walks of life celebrating together felt like a real moment of national togetherness—something we don’t see often enough.

Back home, we’ve already enjoyed some fantastic summer events in Torbay, including the airshow and Electric Bay. Last week, we had the brilliant Paignton Carnival, part of the much-loved Paignton Festival. I had the pleasure of joining Safe Sustainable Travel Torbay on a tandem bike in the colourful procession, surrounded by dancing, music and an atmosphere bursting with community spirit.

This event is one of the English Riviera’s most cherished traditions, with over a century of history. The carnival parade brings together local organisations, performers and families, all showcasing the best of Torbay. 

It was a joy to be part of the celebration and to see the streets filled with laughter, energy and pride. My sincere thanks to the organisers, volunteers and everyone who came out to make it such an unforgettable evening.

If I can help with anything, please get in touch. Email me at steve.darling.mp@parliament.uk or call 07908 349347. For regular updates on my work, sign up for my newsletter at torbaylibdems.org.uk/newsletter.