Passing the baton

After almost a quarter of a century representing you on Sutton Council, including twelve years as its leader, I have taken the decision to step down at this election. I’m passing the baton to the new generation of hardworking dedicated Liberal Democrat local champions.

This hasn’t been an easy decision, but it is the right one. I feel so lucky to have had your support for all these years, and I want you to know that your heartfelt encouragement and kind words meant so much to me through the highs and lows of local politics.

It hasn’t always been easy -  but whether it was austerity, lockdown or the ongoing cost of living crisis, our community has always pulled together to do everything it can to support one another. Your faith in each other and your dedication to the hard work of improving our neighbourhoods has made representing you the privilege of my life.

I want everyone in Sutton North to know that I’m so proud of what we’ve all achieved together. Sutton is one of the safest places to live in the country. Young families come here now to put down roots. Local community groups and businesses thrive.

The future is full of challenges - and the next set of councillors in Sutton will need to do everything they can to protect Sutton from the ever more uncertain world around it. For that reason, I hope that you will support Sam, Yusuf and Vanessa to continue the vitally important work of making sure local decisions are made in the interests of local people.

I look forward to playing my part in tackling those challenges in other, non-councillor roles. But for now, I just want to say one last time - thank you, for everything. It has been such an honour.