James Wharton

This morning I met my campaign team co-ordinator to look back over 2008 and consider where we will be going in 2009.  I am fortunate to have a strong team, all volunteers, who work hard to support all the work we do in Stockton South.

I then spent the afternoon signing letters for residents in Yarm who filled out my pre-Christmas survey.  I was unable to write back immediately as Labour called a by-election (sadly at great cost to Yarm ratepayers).  This meant that any letters I sent could have counted as election expenses, so my correspondence had to be put on hold.  The result was thata huge pile of post built up, which I hope to clear before the New Year.

This afternoon I met a number of residents who wanted to raise local issues and concerns.  Discussion was wide ranging and some good ideas were proposed.  I have no doubt that the people I met will seek to take things further and will work to ensure a better future for their community.  I hope to support them whatever way I can.

I would like to wish all readers the very best for Christmas and New Year 2009.  No doubt things will be busy again as soon as the New Year arrives but I am looking forward to a few days off in the meantime!

Last night I attended the count for the Yarm by-election at Yarm Primary school.  It was a tense count and turnout was low, as would sadly be expected just before Christmas.  Congratulations to Mike Hornby and Sarah Sherwood, the two Conservative candidates, who were both elected by a clear margin.  Labour did not even stand in Yarm this time, abandoning the town and clearly showing that they have given up on Yarm residents.  Instead there were two Labour-backed “former councillors” who ran a vicious campaign against Mike and Sarah.  Hopefully now that this election is over Yarm Town Council can focus on the things that really matter and improving life for residents across their community.

The Northern Echo have printed my letter about responsibility in government, which I wrote following a column by Middlesbrough Mayor Ray Mallon in last week’s Echo.

http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/features/letters/3977733.Responsibilty/