VIKKI Slade has vowed to work for "the residents of Shitterton and Happy Bottom" in her maiden speech to parliament. 

The Liberal Democrat MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole told parliament on October 10 that her journey to the Commons has been “more of a marathon than a sprint”. 

She stood four times before eventually taking over the seat from Tory Michael Tomlinson in July’s general election. 

The Broadstone resident of 25 years said: “My constituency of Mid Dorset and North Poole is made up of dozens of communities, all with their own special character.  

“We are all linked through our landscape, particularly the Dorset heathlands, which are home to all six of the UK’s native reptiles and to ground-nesting birds. 

“It has the most lovely walks, including on Upton heath, known to my social media followers as ‘my happy place’. 

“The work undertaken by the Dorset Wildlife Trust, RSPB Arne, the National Trust and others to restore our landscapes means that we are one of the only places in the UK to have reversed the decline in nature.  

“Eco-tourism is now supporting economic growth, preserving the way of life in our countryside, towns and villages.” 

Shitterton, near Bere RegisShitterton, near Bere Regis

Mrs Slade said her “voice is my power” and vowed to use it to fight for the voiceless, particularly children. 

"Every child must be able to thrive, but our current education system stops that happening for so many young people.  

“We have a curriculum that crushes creativity, a SEND system that condemns children to fail, and a grip so tight on Ofsted measures that teachers do not have the space to truly share the joy of learning.  

“Some of our children face an even greater battle, including children in care, young carers, children who suffer bereavement, and those with disabilities or life-limiting conditions.” 

She said she wanted to send a message to young people worried about their future: “If you want something badly enough, keep trying. 

“It is possible, whatever your background, your gender and your struggles. Like me, you might take the long route, but like my famous country ‘mum walks’, the long ones are where you stumble across the most interesting places and create lasting memories."

She added: "I want everyone living in Mid Dorset and North Poole, from Shitterton to Happy Bottom—yes, they are real places—and from Gaunt’s Common to Canford Heath, to know that they have a champion in me, and to know that I am committed to making the places that we all call home the best they can be."