FIRSTLY, I would like to congratulate David Staveley and Robert Ogden and wish them all the best in their roles as newly elected councillors (in the Ribblesdale Division, North Yorkshire County Council, and Penyghent ward, Craven District Council) and to continue carrying on the great work of Richard Welch.

It was great to see so many people turn out to vote in this by-election and allowed the community to continue to return to the long-awaited normal times. From speaking to the polling agents around the area on Thursday May 6, they all commented on how great it was to see so many people in high spirits come out to vote. Let’s hope this high level of turnout and enthusiasm continues for future elections across the region.

All of this would not have been possible if it wasn’t for the fantastic organisation by Craven District Council in maintaining the safety and well-being of everyone when they came out to vote. This efficient and impressive organisation was maintained the next day during the election count, so I would like to give a huge thanks to all of those involved in ensuring the elections were run efficiently and safely for all.

With the imminent reorganisation of our regional councils, there will no doubt be further local elections in the not-too-distant future, so myself and our many activists at a local level, will be working even harder within our communities to outline the importance and value in voting for Labour.

Brian McDaid

Local Labour Party Representative

Skipton