Councillor Neil Mottershead, who has represented Gannow at Burnley Borough Council for the last 14 years has officially joined the Conservatives. Formerly an independent Councillor for his area, Neil has spoken of his admiration for the work being done by both the local Conservative Council Group, and Burnley and Padiham’s MP Antony Higginbotham.
Speaking about his move Cllr Mottershead said:
“I’ve always done my best by the residents of Gannow. But being a Councillor on my own is not easy. Having spoken it over with a lot of people over the last few weeks I’ve decided to join a hard-working group in the council to get the best for my area.
That’s why I’ve joined the Conservative Grouping. Not only have I seen the time and effort they put in for their residents, but I feel the Conservative MP Antony Higginbotham works hard for Burnley too. This is about getting the best for Gannow.”
The move now means the Conservative Group in Burnley Council is once again the second largest party, with Gannow represented by one Labour and one Conservative Councillor with the remaining independent Councillor Mark Payne not re-standing.
Commenting on Councillor Mottershead’s decision, Conservative Group Leader Alan Hosker said:
“Neil is a hard-working Councillor for his area and residents know that. He’ll make a great addition to our team as we work to put the priorities of residents first. I have no doubt about it.
Labour are in disarray locally having virtually split in half over the past few months. And when it comes to getting things done, it’s the Conservatives who are delivering for people across Burnley and Padiham. Whether that’s our MP, Council Group, our candidate in Gannow Rhys Williams or newest member Cllr Neil Mottershead. I’m proud of what we’re delivering for residents and am really happy Neil has joined us.”
Commenting Antony Higginbotham MP said:
“In Neil we have someone who has demonstrated that he works to deliver for his area. And so I’m delighted to welcome him to the Conservative Party. He’ll be a great addition to our team, and I look forward to working with him.”