As reported in the Bolton News (24/4), I will be standing in the ‘Westhoughton North and Chew Moor’ ward. Of the 20 wards in Bolton – all of which have their own challenges and issues – Westhoughton North and Chew Moor is geographically the biggest in Bolton, and is described as the toughest ward of all! It has its own long history and traditions with its own sense of independence from Bolton. The ward is politically challenging in that over the last 9 years since its formation in 2004, it never has returned a sitting councillor. Its seats have been divided between the three main parties. This election you could have a say in electing its first Independent Councillor.
I first stood for the seat in 2012, coming third from a standing start gaining a respectable 11.6% of the vote – analysis showed a swing of 9.8% from Conservative to Independent, with all parties losing votes. The turnout was just 33%, such was the dissatisfaction with the main parties and politics. Obviously, it is disappointing to lose (comes with the territory), but it was a good start – and yes, people put their X on the ballot against my name, for which I'm very grateful.
So, after deep reflection with my family and reassurance of their continuing love and support in my endeavours, I expressed my wish to stand in the coming Bolton Council 2014 Elections for Westhoughton North and Chew Moor. Having handed in my nomination form and this being approved, I have to express my sincere thanks for the people who nominated me (a candidate needs 10 nominees who live in the ward itself). Their encouragement, belief and sincere good wishes give me hope for the challenge ahead – that of gaining enough support to win the seat as an Independent.
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| Ballot - No. 6 |
"You Are Number Six... "
I can’t help but think of Patrick McGoohan in The Prisoner and his fight to be a free, independent man riling against a system that would make him conform and tow the (party) line. It is our ability to think for ourselves, to discuss, debate, innovate, find common ground and solutions to problems that make us great, and helps build a better society. This free thinking seems to be stifled these days. Too much ideologically-driven politics. I watch aghast today’s career politicians so intent on just getting out mantra-like their latest soundbites, no deviation from message allowed – actually answering the question of secondary importance. Vacuous, empty rhetoric that seems to insult the intelligence of us all; and policy announcements chasing headlines and focus group demographics that unravel within days upon any scrutiny. No wonder people are turned off and despair with politicians. We need alternatives – we need change!
Back to the election… Being held on the same day as the European Elections, I anticipate there will be a good turnout (certainly higher than the typical 30-40% expected for Local Council Elections) - the issue of Europe seems to have been getting a lot of attention, people may take the opportunity to register their discontent with the main parties. Of course, any voter wishing to express their interest in the European Election and not in the local election your vote is just as equally important. It is said local elections are decided on local policies, however, in combined elections national policies will have a greater sway.
It is self-evident that Independent candidates do not have the same financial backing as the main political parties, nor the same organisational support or canvassers available for ‘spreading the word.’ For me, I have to put my money were my mouth is, and meet the cost of my own campaign. Thankfully, I do have help from my wife, daughter and a few friends when canvassing. My budget will allow me to finance one leaflet and a card for the election. However, thanks the wonder of the internet and the technical wizardry of my nephew, I will be able to use this to its full potential through my blog/website, Twitter and e-mail. As I take the leap of faith in communicating this way, I encourage you to please read my blog to keep informed of my progress – and to communicate your thoughts, ideas and hopefully encouragement.
Of course, nothing could be better than to speak to you face to face, which I enjoy, and I do hope we do get a chance to speak personally. If you do see me out and about canvassing, please feel free to approach me for a chat.
Since being elected as a Councillor in 2012 for the Chequerbent Ward on the Town Council, I have been confident and effective in addressing local key issues, such as, having a fair share of expenditure for Westhoughton, adequate public services for the population, jobs rather than houses and better transport and infrastructure. I am not shy in speaking out on subjects which are of concern to you, and I am both free to and prepared to stand up to Bolton Council. In 2011 I was elected by my fellow Councillors to represent the Town Council at Lancashire Association of Local Councils at Preston Town Hall, where we have an executive seat. Attending regular meetings, there I speak out on topics that impact all of our community. You can be certain that if you trust me with your vote, you will have a voice that represents the needs and wishes of local people across our community.
Again thank you for taking time in reading my blog. I do hope we find time to talk on the doorstep or around Westhoughton.
Cllr Jack Speight
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