I AM proud and honoured to have been elected as the Labour councillor for the Atherleigh ward in the local government elections and I wish to place on record a huge thanks to all who voted for me.

The 1,067 votes I received was more than double that of the next nearest candidate and that reflects the strength of feeling of the local community.

During the campaigning prior to election day I met many people around the ward and had interesting and useful discussions with many of them.

I look forward to meeting them and many more residents over the coming months and years and working with individuals and groups within the local community to resolve issues and improve the quality of life for ward residents.

Having served in Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service for 33 years and been the borough fire commander for the last four-and-a-half years of my career, I have previously worked with many organisations, partners and groups and I trust that this experience will serve me well as a councillor.

Once again many thanks to all who have put their faith in me and I shall work hard for you to be an effective and useful councillor.

Cllr John Harding

Atherleigh ward