Dear Sir,
I will always remember the feeling waiting to hear the results of the Newton Aycliffe West Ward local council elections and being elected to serve on the Great Aycliffe Town Council for the people of West Ward.
It was a true honour that people believed in a young person to represent them! Since then I have learned so much – not just about the workings of a council, but also about communities and the struggles people face in their day-to-day lives.
I stood because I wanted to make a difference and I believe I have. I fought hard with other councillors to reinstate the Great Aycliffe Fireworks Display and played key roles on various committees, working groups including the youth centre and youth council. I believed it was very important the youth had a voice on the Town Council and I hope I have been a good representative for the people of Aycliffe.
Last year I was offered a job in the south of France and was out there for half of the year. The council agreed to allow me this time, not just to learn new skills, but also to find more about the person I am. I believe it helped me become a stronger and better person. Although abroad I was still campaigning and talking to people on social media and after returning home jumped straight back into council meetings feeling far more confident than before.
I was given the chance to return and it has been a very difficult decision, because I realise that I cannot possibly represent the people of Aycliffe while being abroad. This being the case I have decided to resign from the Town Council as I honestly believe it’s the right thing to do.
It has been one of hardest decisions I have ever had to make.
I have loved being a councillor and people I have met along the way have taught me so much about life and our community. Indeed, I would hope that one day to seek re-election at a time when I can commit fully to being a councillor; but for now I need to develop my life and a career.
I would like to thank my local Labour councillors for tutoring me though these past couple of years and supporting me. It really has made a difference to my life and I hope my being a councillor had a positive impact on residents’ lives as well. Most of all I would like to thank the people of the West Ward for giving me this chance to make a difference.
Cllr Dan Summers
