The result is official – I have held onto my seat in the recently concluded local elections in South Cambridgeshire District. The turnout was 46.15% of the electorate and it was good to see so many people turn out, despite the sometimes awful weather that we experienced during the day.
The final count took place on Friday 23rd with the results as Tumi Hawkins 551 (60.95%), Stephen Frost Conservatives 256 (28.32%) and Helen Crowther Labour 97 (10.73%). The full statistics is as shown below:
I wish to say thank you to everyone who turned out to vote, and especially to those that gave me their vote, ensuring the resounding victory.
A very special thank you to everyone who helped my campaign by delivering leaflets, canvassing with me or for me, organising me and the campaign, putting up posters and boards, telling at the polling station on election day, operating the Connect database, knocking up on doors in the evening and just doing whatever they could to assist.
I must also thank my family who have supported me over the past four years and given me the freedom to carry on.
Issues affecting the election outcome
During the weeks and days before the election, I spent time canvassing door to door and speaking to folk in all four communities. I was encouraged by the feedback I got on the doorsteps, and picked up some issues that folk need answers to.
I also acknowledge and appreciate the candour of those who told me that though they appreciate the work I do in the ward, but could not consider giving me their vote because of the party I represent or because they support the proposed Bourn Airfield Development or can’t be bothered with policitians. As I keep saying, it is a free world we live in – thankfully – and everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
The one thing I will always do is to encourage everyone to exercise their right to vote. I am sure some of those issues will come to the fore again before the next elections, but I am proud of the campaign that my team ran, and the outcome that we achieved in increasing my majority from 52 in the 2010 elections to 295 in the 2014 elections.
My priorities over the next four years
As your District Councillor, my priorities for the next four years are:
- Ensuring your voice continues to be heard on the proposed local development plan proposals for Bourn Airfield and its wider implications on our communities. I will continue to work towards getting the best outcomes for you.
- To continue to supporting the Parish Councils and community groups to get funding and other resources to implement local projects and get services/facilities in place for our communities.
- Continue to put pressure on and work with the County Council to make bus services provision that meet the specific needs of our communities.
- Continue to assist our communities in supporting young people. The County has removed most of its support, putting pressure for provision on communities. I will work with local groups at all levels to facilitate provision for our young people.
- Continue to work all year round taking up your concerns and helping you and your family to continue to enjoy living in our villages.
In Conclusion
Thank you to the people of Caldecote Ward for giving me the mandate to represent you at South Cambridgeshire District Council for a further four (4) years.