Coun Gordon Finch claimed victory at last week's local election ousting Arthur Meeks.

He said: "I want to thank everyone who voted for me. I've been approached both before and after the election by residents with their concerns and I'm now here to represent all of the ward."

It's not the first time the father-of-two has been elected as a councillor.

He was a Progressive councillor in the Harton ward for three years before losing his seat to Labour councillor Rob Dix in the 2005 elections.

However, this time he's moved over to the Independent Party and is now representing the ward where he's lived for the past 38 years, with wife Kathleen, in Highfield Road.

The move was due to the councillor having too much respect for veteran politician Jim Capstick, who serves in his former ward.

Coun Finch said: "I became an Independent because there was no way I was going to stand against Jim, who's the leader of the Progressives, he's been there for so long. But we're all still very good friends."

Coun Finch was keen to get back in action, because of his desire to help others.

He said: "When you fix a problem or help someone out, it's an amazing feeling when they say 'thank you' and you know you've done some good."

With living in Horsley Hill the former engineer is aware of many of the problems residents face.

One area he hopes to improve is traffic.

He said: "I'm aware of issues with parking and problems with vehicles in many of the area's streets. Hopefully, these will be sorted out."

Coun Finch won't be holding ward surgeries but can be contacted by phone, and all messages will be responded to within 24 hours.

He added: "If residents have any problems, I urge them not to hesitate
and get in touch with me, and I look forward to meet-ing everyone."

To get in contact with Coun Finch, call him on 455 5903.

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