A lot has happened already this year (and I only officially took office on the first of July), so I thought it was about time I got on with writing a blog!

Before I list all the things that I’ve been up to, I want to say something about the bombings in London on the 7th of July. My thoughts on the actions themselves echo those of many, and I cannot imagine what drives a person to commit such a horrendous act. On a more personal note, on Thursday morning I was in the Tavistock Hotel, near where the bus was blown up, and due to the mobile phone networks being swamped, was out of contact for a couple of hours, causing concern for those trying to locate everyone. I want to pay tribute to the actions of our leadership in ensuring that all staff and NEC were accounted for, and were able to travel home in safety. I also want to highlight that whilst we, as an NEC, at times debate fiercely amongst ourselves, when the situation demands, all arguments and discussions are put to one side, and we are able to unite as one collective group. At the time I am writing this the news headlines are reporting that the bombers have been identified and related arrests have been made. Lets hope that they can bring the right people to justice.

On a lighter note, I thought I had better write a brief summary of what I have been up to, so here goes.

In no particular order,

Three extraordinary NEC meetings - two on finance and one to discuss the ongoing investigation into anti-Semitism within the organisation.

NEC Induction - an event which I am proud to say resulted in a cross factional game of volleyball between 6 members of the NEC.

Training day on Islam – an interesting event that was organised by Jamal, and included both speakers, and an opportunity for discussion.

NW regional training – which went well, despite the exceptional heat that forced some activities outside!

Wimbledon – Andrew Murray got to the third round, only losing out to the eventual winner Nalbandian.

The 2012 Olympics – due to an NEC meeting I was in London on the day they announced that London won the bid to host the 2012 games. Mel Ward and I went to Trafalgar Square, which was packed, for the announcement, and I’m really glad we did, because the reaction when they said London was fantastic.

Make Poverty History – the march in Edinburgh was fantastic – really sunny day, almost everyone in white, and a brilliant atmosphere.

First NEC meeting of the year – we started to discuss the priority campaigns for the year, and these will be planned in more detail over the coming weeks. We were also given our responsibilities for the year. I am a member of the mature students and the SU development campaigns, and also will be the observer on the National Postgraduate Committee (NPC) and on British Universities Sports Association (BUSA).

I think that’s more than enough for now! If I’ve missed anything I’m sure I can add it to a later installment.

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