Two weeks have passed since the local elections, and I'm still overwhelmed by all the support I received. I would like to thank everyone who voted for me and to all those involved in the election campaign. Clive Balchin my campaign manager has been a magnificent support and I could not have done it without him. I am extremely grateful to all the Win With Winder team who campaigned tirelessly.
And finally to all the other candidates, in particular Hazel Harding who has been a dedicated and committed councillor for both the local and the county council for 24 years. Despite our different views, I do not doubt the hard work she has put in over the years.
All politicians at every level will have to do their utmost to win back the trust of the public. Each of us who has been elected will have to prove we are worthy of the votes we have received.
The expenses scandal has knocked everyone’s confidence in the democratic system. During the campaign it was the only topic I heard on the doorstep as I visited people’s homes.
We are living through a watershed time. Trust is the cornerstone of democracy. Without trust in elected councillors, we have nothing.
I’m not claiming to be a saint, but I do promise to do my absolute best to serve the public and make a positive contribution to our local community. People have voted for me because I am a local person who they can trust. It’s up to us to wipe the slate clean and put the scandal behind us, but we will have to work very hard to do so.
I will continue to campaign on the issues I have been working on including the school bus service which will benefit children, schools and parents, as well as fighting for improvements to highways, care of the elderly and activities for youngsters.
