Members and supporters of Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Conservatives gathered this week for their annual dinner at the Middleton Masonic Lodge.
The dinner which is a much anticipated annual event was well attended by members who turned out to both support the group and hear guest speaker Councillor John Hudson from Oldham who spoke about his experiences in politics and his thoughts both local and national issues. In particular John, who has been a councillor for 40 years, spoke about the need to maintain a high profile throughout the year with leaflets. He told the room that it was important to keep on reporting back to residents; no matter how well-known a Councillor may appear, there is now substitute for a good quality leaflet to let people know what we are doing for them in their area.
He also spoke of the great work that is going on at a local level, and the importance of the grass-roots supporters that give their time and energy to keep the local party going and continue to put our message out to the public so that they know what the Conservative party are doing to support them and make their lives better. He said that is was brilliant to see that despite the recent attention from the likes of UKIP in the by-election, Conservatism had remained a strong force in our constituencies thanks to a relentless commitment from our supporters..
Association President, Councillor James Gartside hosted the evening, which had been organised by Anne Shorrock and Felicity Guthrie. Many people had donated to the raffle which was well supported on the night and helped to raise funds towards the associations fighting funds. Thanks to all who attended.