I AM writing to thank all those people who had faith in me and Ukip last Thursday. We didn’t win but felt we made good progress.
I would like to congratulate Jake (Berry) on his victory and wish him all the best in representing the people of Rossendale and Darwen.
Having said that, we intend to keep a close check on him to ensure he keeps the promises and pledges he gave during the campaign.
I would also like to thank the other candidates for a good spirited campaign.
As I drove around the various polling stations last Thursday I thought what a great country we live in and felt proud to be part of such an honest and reliable democracy.
Politics is a rough old trade. Sometimes you win, sometimes you don’t. When you lose one has to step back, ask yourself why and learn from it.
Then put yourself in a position that next time you get it right and succeed. I intend to stay involved in politics through my membership of Ukip.
I truly believe that we are on the way to becoming a formidable party based on common sense, passion and openness.
Clive Balchin, Ukip Rossendale and Darwen (via email)
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