The campaign is over, the vote has been counted, and the good people of Bournemouth Central have elected me to BCP Council.

To say this is an immense honour and privilege would be an understatement. I have had many instructive and interesting conversations with you over the last few months and I do not underestimate the task ahead of me to play my part in realising your aspirations for both our ward and the conurbation.

I wholeheartedly thank all those who voted for me, but to both those who did and to those who put their cross elsewhere, I promise to work for the common good of us all to the best of my abilities and will not squander this opportunity you have given me to help shape the future of our ward.