• I WANT to pay tribute to all those involved with West Hampstead Amenity & Transport (WHAT) as they celebrate their 50th anniversary this weekend.

There are too many people to name, but special thanks to the current chair John Saynor, all the officers of WHAT and everyone else who has been involved in this important community organisation over the years and helped to organise the anniversary celebrations.

Since 1973 WHAT has done vital work in our area to represent community interests. WHAT has always been on the side of West Hampstead residents, but its impact has been felt across London through the campaigns it has run.

In the last few years I have been especially glad to see the important work of WHAT in making the area cleaner and more environmentally friendly, promoting the use of reusable coffee cups and holding meetings with stakeholders and authorities about water issues in the area.

WHAT’s campaigns on local planning and transport issues, like its lobbying to improve accessibility at West Hampstead Underground station, reflect a genuine desire by group members to protect and improve our tight-knit neighbourhood.

I have been impressed by WHAT’s dedication to this area. It’s the type of local action which makes West Hampstead such a special community.

I wish the organisers the best of luck for WHAT’s 50th anniversary event, which is taking place on West End Lane this Sunday (September 24) throughout the day.

West End Lane was the site of WHAT’s first walking protest half-a-century ago, and will this weekend showcase the best of West Hampstead, with musical entertainment and provision from local cafés and businesses.

I encourage all residents to attend, show support for West Hampstead Amenity & Transport’s work, and celebrate our community.

TULIP SIDDIQ MP
Labour
Hampstead & Kilburn