I WOULD greatly appreciate it, if through your page, I could sincerely thank the residents of Stanley Ward, who voted for me.

Overall, my vote can only be described as incredible and the total of 821 is by far and away the best that an Independent candidate has received for many, many years in Blackpool.

From the total of 117 candidates at these local elections, no less than 60 received fewer votes then me and most of these from the so called "big political parties". So much for the generally held opinion in the political parties that Independents cannot do well!

In Stanley Ward, the Labour and Liberal Democrats trailed behind me and only the two Conservatives did better.

I can assure all my supporters that I will continue to press for improvements in Stanley Ward and fight for all the residents. I will be in their fighting again, in four years time.

I would also like to appeal to anyone who is interested in standing as Independents in Blackpool at the next local elections, to contact me on 404973.

Once again, many thanks, Stanley Ward.

John Finlay

Faringdon Avenue

Blackpool