Tonbridge, Edenbridge & Malling and Tunbridge Wells Conservatives have launched an innovative camapign, aimed at identifying and encouraging new people to stand for election to their local Borough Council.
In a full page advertisement in this week's Courier supplemented by a mailshot to over 300 local voluntary organisations, we are inviting "communuty champions" to attend a series of open days to find out more about the role and responsibilities of being a local councillor.
The idea is the brainchild of local Campaign Director, Andrew Kennedy, who said:
"Whilst locally we have a strong and active membership, we are conscious that there are hundreds of people who care passionately about their local community but have never joined a political party. Many of these people would make first rate councillors.
"Whilst each Council needs its political thinkers, the majority of councillors are not politicians; they are local champions who believe in public service and want to do what's right for their neighbours and local community.
"We are inviting people to come and find out more, with no obligation to take matters further should they decide that it's not for them. Obviously if they decide to go forward to the next stage and apply to become a Conservative candidate they would need to join the Conservative Party and pass our local government interview and assessment process."
Tunbridge Wells Conservative Association Chairman, William Rutherford, said:
"Effective local councillors can make a real difference to their community. From advising residents on development plans, helping secure funding for local facilities, improving the local environment and representing the voice of electors in the Council Chamber. We are keen to bring forward the best people and ensure they have an opportunity to serve their communities which might otherwise have not been available to them."
Tonbridge, Edenbridge & Malling Chairman, Jacques Arnold, added:
"This campaign is being financed by the local Conservative Associations at no charge to the taxpayer. We believe that by raising awareness of local candidate selection we will attract many people who already work hard for our community but who have never considered being councillors, or simply had no idea how to put themselves forward."
For further information, see this week's Courier or call Andrew Kennedy direct on 01732 842794 now.