York MP Luke Charters praises Scrap Box chippy at Dunnington

REPRESENTING York is always an immense privilege. It’s the place I grew up, where my young family calls home, and a city full of wonderful people and businesses.

At the moment, though, it also feels like the sporting centre of the universe!

In this month’s column, I want to focus on York City and York Knights and the success they’re both enjoying on the pitch. Both teams have made a fantastic start to the season, and it’s worth celebrating the hard work that’s brought them here, work that has been building over several seasons. The truth is, neither club’s achievements are accidental. Their success relies on dedicated staff, hardworking players, and loyal supporters.

When both of our teams do well, it creates a buzz across the city, from cafés and pubs to chatter in offices and conversations in school playgrounds. It’s also a great source of rivalry for me speaking to other MPs before we play their teams at each weekend!

When it comes to football, those 90 minutes on a Saturday or a Tuesday night under the lights really matter. Like anyone else, I work hard all week and juggle a busy job with two young boys. I try to go when I can, but still celebrate even if I can’t.

Saturday evening was a perfect example of why I love following City, even if I can’t always be there. I was putting my boys to bed while listening in to BBC Radio York’s coverage of Morecambe away. A 99th-minute winner from Ollie Banks meant a very restrained celebration that threw off the bed time routine! Hats off to David Ward and the team for some fantastic commentary as always. Stuart Maynard has been phenomenal since coming in as manager, and Ollie Pearce just keeps scoring. Happy days!

The game against Rochdale on the final day is shaping up to be a real spectacle as we both aim for that automatic spot. Regardless of what happens, though, I joined other MPs in Parliament calling for #3UP the other week.

Losing out to Oldham in last year’s play-offs still stings. This is about fairness. We need a football pyramid that’s fit for purpose whether we go up or not, and I’m pleased to be working with the National League to make that case. Hopefully it’s job done by the Rochdale game, though!

As I write this, I’m getting ready to go to Boreham Wood this evening. A Tuesday night in London is a long haul for most, but thankfully close enough to Parliament!

A personal note, though. One moment I’m especially looking forward to at the LNER is taking my little ones to their first game. Walking down the concourse and seeing their faces as the pitch comes into view isn’t just about football, it’s about passing something on. I’m sure that’s something a lot of dads in York will recognise.

People know I’m a big York City fan, and that the club is very close to my heart. But I’ll be really honest that I’ve followed rugby league much less.

Over the last couple of years though, as York Knights built momentum and earned promotion to the Super League, it’s been impossible not to take notice!

I was chuffed to be at the Knight’s first game in the Super League a few weeks ago, and it couldn’t have gone better. Reigning Champions Hull KR at home, a brilliant atmosphere, and late drop-goal to win. You couldn’t have scripted it. Like many in York, since then, I’ve been absolutely hooked, keeping an eye on every try and conversion. A cracking start, and big season ahead!

The turnout has been just as impressive, with 8,500 at the LNER. When a club is flying, people respond. The Knights deserve huge credit for bringing new supporters through the gates and inspiring a new generation of fans. I’m happy to say I fall into this category.

Turning away from sport, I was pleased to welcome Menfulness to Parliament. After taking Mike Hewitt to a Downing Street reception last year, I’ve since met CEO Jack and colleagues Emma and Matt to discuss their work supporting young people’s mental wellbeing in York at Inspire Academy. They are fantastic.

I’m also chuffed to say a permanent Post Office is reopening in Haxby. After pushing for a permanent solution, I’ve had confirmation that a new premises will be set up. This is a real win for residents who campaigned hard, and I want to thank Haxby Town Council for working with me on this.

I also want to thank the parents, carers, and others who met with me at the University of York to discuss the impact of social media on children. Your insights have been invaluable and fed into a recent parliamentary debate on screen time.

I want to end with a huge shout-out to The Scrap Box in Dunnington, voted the best chippy in the country! I was delighted to host them in Parliament as they headed to the National Fish and Chip Awards, and also to pop over to the shop for my tea last Friday night. Gavin and Aman run a fantastic business, but above all, they are truly top blokes.

If you need anything from my team or me, do get in touch. For now, enjoy the blue skies and warmer weather! Thanks, and take care.