James Wharton MP

This afternoon I attended the funeral of Harry Davies M.B.E., a long standing member of the local Conservative Party who, as it happens, was the first to welcome me into politics some years ago.  Harry was an example to everyone in public life, having been a local Councillor for many years and even stood for Parliament in 1983.  Many local people will remember him for his time as a head teacher or his work with Billingham folklaw festival.  Frank Cook, the Labour MP for Stockton North and a long time friend of Harry’s, spoke movingly about his own time with Harry and how, despite their politics being somewhat different, they were always close friends.  Harry will be sorely missed by all who knew him, his contribution to his home town and the Borough leave a legacy which will not be forgotten.