This is my first New Year Message as Conservative Councillor for Leasowe and Moreton East. 

When I started the campaign which eventually saw me elected, I said I wanted to be the Councillor for everyone, regardless of their background; politics; age or problems.  That remains the case after my first eight months as Councillor.  I work to put the community first and Party politics second.

As the first-ever Conservative Councillor for this area, Labour’s 34 year, unbroken hold came to end.  People recognised it was time for change.  That is as true today as it was on May 2nd. 

But I know that many people, while wanting change, were unsure whether to vote Conservative. Since May 2nd, I have worked to show the sceptics, the doubters and the floating voters that I will work as hard for their interests as I will for committed Conservative voters. 

I believe we are all in this together and that we are stronger by working together.  There is such a thing as society, it’s just not the same thing as the State. 

I have made some fantasic friends and acquiantances in this community since I started campaigning.  My colleague and prospective MP, Leah Fraser, and I have appreciated the warm and friendly welcome we have received and we look forward to building on that in 2009.

There are huge issues facing Leasowe and Moreton.  Some are social and personal – such as alcoholism, drugs and anti social behaviour.  Some are political – not least the level council services and Council Tax.   I look forward to working with residents and community groups on these, and many other issues, throughout 2009.  I can’t promise to solve every problem but I do promise to try my best.

Whether you voted for me or not in May, I thank you for reading this message and wish you, and your family, a happy and prosperous 2009.