THE outpouring of good wishes and appreciation for my efforts on behalf of the Barden Fell Ward residents and businesses over the past four and a half years has taken me somewhat aback.

I am truly grateful to all those individuals and organisations who have made the effort to express both public and private support.

It was a humbling occurrence when the electorate chose me to be their representative and spokesperson at Craven District Council.

I do hope that I have rewarded their trust with true diligence and endeavour. I will continue to work hard in the new 'hybrid' role agreed between myself and the council until an election can take place.

We do live in the most difficult and disturbing times with, alas, little light at the end of the tunnel. However, if ever there was a time when we all need to pull together, put ‘personalities’ and ‘politics’ to one side, and all act in our everyday lives with compassion, tolerance and understanding of each other’s views and opinions, this is it.

Covid 19 has brought with it many personal tragedies and unforeseen problems. Of course matters might have been handled differently or better if only we all had the courage to learn to admit when we may be wrong and honestly rectify matters when required.

David Pighills, Barden