Dear Sir,
It is now 7 months since Scott and I were elected in the Aycliffe North and Middridge Ward as Conservative Councillors and it is amazing how quickly time has passed.
It has been a very interesting time both in the ward and at County Hall where we are increasingly involved in the committees as we develop our knowledge and are able to provide challenge or support as we see fit.
The best part of being a County Councillor though has to be the work in the ward. This has ranged from the structured elements through the GAMP, looking at local initiatives and making the difficult choices of which to support, through to the many local groups we have the privilege to engage with.
Within our ward we would like to particularly mention the Horndale Residents Group, Middridge Parish Council, the GAMP as well as everyone at the PCP and Woodham community centre.
We also had the pleasure of meeting Alison and Kath at the foodbank and seeing the Credit Union team at their new home in the Library. Please do what you can to support the food bank team and we would strongly encourage anyone needing to borrow to go to the Credit Union and avoid the extortionate interest charges of the likes of Bright House and doorstep loans.
It was great to meet some of the Syrian families we have welcomed to the town and we hope they settle in well and can rebuild their lives after the trauma they have left.
Whilst we have obvious Political differences which arise on policies and decisions in County Hall we would also thank the Labour Councillors on the town as we have been working with great cooperation when it comes to day to day ward issues.
We look forward to more of the same in 2018 and wish you all a fabulous festive period and that 2018 brings all you wish.
Please remember to take time to look after those you meet who need your support as for some this is a particularly difficult time of year.
Paul Howell & Scott Durham
As received by Newton News
