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)