David Ruffley has been invited by the Suffolk Deaf Association to become their first Vice Patron. This official position in the Association follows David's support for their activities over the years since he became Member of Parliament for Bury St Edmunds. The Duchess of Grafton, the Association's President and a longstanding supporter, has agreed to become Patron.

David said: 'I have had personal experience of the difficulties faced by deaf people. As a child my deaf grandfather lived with us as I was growing up.

I am honoured to have been asked to become the first Vice Patron of the Suffolk Deaf Association. I look forward to playing my part in promoting their work throughout Suffolk and, in particular, the activities that take place in my own constituency. Fundraising is an important activity in any charity and I will add my weight to their bids for funding.

Although technology has moved on considerably since my grandfather's day and access to digital hearing aids is becoming more widespread, there is still a lot that charities such as the Suffolk Deaf Association can do to improve the lives of deaf people and the hard of hearing.'