BORIS Johnson’s shrewdness is best illustrated by the fact that he is the only politician of this generation to be widely known by his first name even amongst those with little interest in politics.

Boris has carefully crafted an image of himself as a “joker” which has endeared him to many people fed up with the “same old boring” politicians.

The truth is that all of his adult life he has believed his destiny was to be Prime Minister and his intelligence and track record of surrounding himself with able people should not be underestimated.

As Prime Minister he has started boldly and with a sense of optimism and hope a majority in the country want to buy into.

I like many others worry about the economic impact of leaving the EU without a deal on 31s October. However, I cannot criticise the Government for planning for this eventuality both as part of a negotiating strategy but also because it is becoming increasingly likely.

We now have a new Prime Minister and a withdrawal agreement which was rejected by parliament on three successive occasions. In these circumstances, it is extraordinary that the EU are unwilling to reopen negotiations without pre conditions.

While I disagree with them on Brexit the Lib Dems have adopted a consistent Remain position including support for a second referendum throughout. This in stark contrast to Labour's muddled and opportunistic approach which is due to Jeremy Corbyns ill-fated attempt to mask his lifelong anti-EU views from an overwhelmingly Remain party membership and a sabotage strategy to force a general election.

The new Prime Minister's honeymoon will end almost before it has begun and the people’s judgement unsentimental. His future and that of his Government will depend on whether he can deliver a Brexit which avoids short term economic meltdown. The stakes have never been higher for our country in peacetime.

Closer to home I have been working frantically to save Bury FC and prevent the Shakers from being expelled from the Football League. Steve Dale, the club's owner has to demonstrate he has the funds to pay the players and the rest of the bills for the season ahead. If he is unable to do so by Friday the second game of the season against Accrington Stanley will be cancelled and it is likely the league will set the clock ticking on a process which could lead to Bury’s expulsion.

I understand the fans anger and frustration but I caution against demonstrations targeting Mr Dale's home or family. This will not force him to sell the club but instead make a sensible resolution more difficult. Despite the scale of the challenge I remain hopeful we can salvage the club and the season from the current carnage.

As Parliament is in recess during August I get to combine more time in the constituency with some rest.

Don’t forget you can contact me on ivan.lewis.mp@parliament.uk or 0161 773 5500 if you need any advice or help.