MEP is special guest at Bexhill Labour dinner

South east MEP Anneliese Dodds with Bexhill and Battle Labour Party vice-chairman Christine Bayliss at Labour Party dinner in Bexhill SUS-170603-151729001

Labour supporters from Bexhill, Hastings and the surrounding area met for the yearly fundraiser at the Chilli Tree Restaurant in King Offa Way.

Ms Dodds gave an ‘illuminating’ talk about the issues and challenges facing Britain as we leave the European Union and discussed maintaining local democratic accountability.

“Many thanks to @BandBLabour for a lovely evening and a great discussion. Good to hear about campaign for more local control in #Bexhill too,” she tweeted.

Her speech was followed by a discussion of the members’ own hopes and fears about the future of European cooperation and local democracy.

Funds from the event will be used to support Labour candidates in the upcoming county council elections in May.

Bexhill South candidate Richard Sage said: “The importance of local democracy is in everyone’s mind here in Bexhill at the moment.

“The community governance review for Bexhill is a unique opportunity and essential that everyone gives their opinion in writing or on-line via the Rother [District Council] website.”

Labour is backing plans for a ‘Bexhill Town Council’ in the ongoing governance review, which is looking into how the town is ran.

Sam Coleman, Bexhill West candidate, added: “A town council for Bexhill is Labour policy in Bexhill and Battle.

“Some may feel cautious about additional costs of setting up a new body, estimated at about 11p a week, but the benefits of being able to access further funds – 15 per cent of developer levies and 25 per cent when our own neighbourhood plan is agreed – will make it real value for money.

“The civic pride that comes from taking more responsibility locally will boost confidence and help to attract more businesses and jobs.”

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