COLUMN: Harriett Baldwin writes for The Observer - The Malvern Observer

COLUMN: Harriett Baldwin writes for The Observer

Malvern Editorial 28th May, 2015 Updated: 20th Oct, 2016   0

IT IS so easy to take our free and peaceful democracy for granted. During the election, I was reminded of how the simple process of putting a cross on a piece of paper can lead to a peaceful shift of power.

As I watched each of the 54,000 ballot papers being counted in West Worcestershire, it is clear that every vote counts.

I am glad that 74 per cent of eligible voters took part, but it still means that a quarter of local people did not feel the need to vote.

I would like to thank every person who stood for election locally on May 7. It requires a great deal of dedication and devotion to stand for public office and I have the utmost respect for those who put their names forward to serve their community, even if I don’t agree with their political views.




I am also grateful to all the people who worked so hard to run the polling stations and all the people who helped count the thousands of votes both in the parliamentary election and the district and parish council elections too, working long shifts and throughout the night. It was a lot of work for all involved because of high turnout and because local elections were on the same day.

All candidates need volunteers to help them with a wide range of different tasks, from stuffing envelopes to delivering leaflets, telephoning and chatting to voters. I’m grateful to a small army of volunteers who helped me in so many ways during the General Election.


Finally, thanks to so many people for voting for me. It has given me a clear mandate to continue to campaign for a strong local economy, fairer funding for local schools and 21st century infrastructure.

I am honoured and privileged to be elected to serve our area again for another Parliament.

Public Notices

View and download all of the public notices in the Malvern Observer.

Recruitment

Find a career you'll love with our free career finder website.

Business Directory

From plumbers, to restaurants, we can provide you with all the info you need.

Buy Photos

Buy photos online from the Malvern Observer newspaper.