Democracy in the Labour Party allows for new officers to be appointed at the AGM. There were a range of candidates who put themselves forward for positions this year. The successful candidates are all very supportive of the Labour leadership and the manifesto of the Labour Party that proved so popular at the General Election. Within the executive there is an excellent balance of talent with a healthy age range and a balance of branches represented from throughout the constituency. There are people who have served the community for many years as Labour Councillors and newer members with exciting ideas.

There also remains one very respected member from the previous executive. The change was very much down to members and member engagement. New Chairman Paul Daly told Newton News: “The new executive have vowed to work with, and will work hard to engage, all members – both long term and those who have joined more recently. Although we have not been in the position for long, there are signs that many members are very keen to get involved and have sent messages congratulating us. It was clear from the voting on the night that members want to have officers who support the Labour Party manifesto”. “The Labour Party are a democratic socialist party and are a dedicated and passionate group of people. This includes previous officers who we thank for their hard work. They remain valued party members with a wealth of experience”.

With regards to suggestions of a coup, I am unwilling to engage with rumours and vague suggestions. This does not fit the description of a coup and it is unbecoming of anybody to describe a democratic vote as being one. “If people are to suggest that this was a coup, I would suggest that they do not understand the meaning and gravity of the accusation. This was not a sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government.”

The executive list in full: Chairman: Paul Daly – Wingate Secretary: Barbara Clare – Aycliffe North & West Vice Chair: Pat McCourt – Ferryhill Vice Chair: Jacqueline Cansella – Ferryhill  Membership: Jed Hillary – Aycliffe East Treasurer: John Higgins – Wingate Political Education: Maria Cansella – Ferryhill Women’s Officer: Laura Daly – Wingate Youth Officer: Owen Dickinson – Aycliffe North & West Ethnic Minorities Officer: Ijjou Thompson – Ferryhill Trade Union Liaison: Mick Simpson – West Cornforth Campaign Coordinator: Mark Goff – Wingate Auditor: Gavin Watson – Ferryhill Auditor: Wendy Hillary- Aycliffe East