Cllr Sue Fletcher-Hall with David Winnick MP (pic by Stuart Williams)
An unexpected by-election has been called in the Bloxwich West ward by Walsall Council’s Labour Group, following the resignation of popular local Labour Councillor Sue Ann Fletcher-Hall.
Mrs Fletcher-Hall, who was elected in the May 2011 local government election, has reluctantly decided to step down due to a family illness, and regrets having to resign but circumstances now prevent her giving the level of commitment the demanding role of a ward councillor requires; coping with constituency work and family life has proven to be incompatible with the job.
Councillor Fletcher-Hall, who has been very active in Labour campaigns in Bloxwich and Walsall, said:
“It has been a huge privilege to serve my fellow residents here in Bloxwich West. Unfortunately for some months I have been struggling with an illness in my family which has taken a great deal of my attention.
She added:
“I have always believed that a local councillor must be able to commit to representing the people of their ward. That is why I believe it is now in the best interests of Bloxwich West residents that I step aside. I am proud to have represented my area and proud to have stood with Walsall Labour in fighting the unfair cuts and out-of-touch policies of the Tory administration here and nationally”.
Mrs Fletcher-Hall, who lives in Clarendon Street, has proven to be an asset to both the local community and the party, according to Labour Group spokesman George Makin.
Formally calling the by-election on behalf of the group, fellow Bloxwich West Councillor Fred Westley thanked Sue for her support:
“By calling for a by-election straightaway we have avoided additional costs to Walsall council, as the election will now be held on the same day as the elections for a Police and Crime Commissioner, which will see polling stations open across the borough.”
Labour ward members will now select their candidate, ready for the November by-election, before beginning their campaign.
For more information about Walsall Council’s Labour Group, see their website:
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