Poor turn out for Wadebridge Council election

Only ten per cent of electors turned out to vote to fill two vacant seats on Wadebridge Town Council last week.

Not surprising as local people were only notified through the Cornish Guardian and through the Wadebridge People website and via Wadebridge People on twitter and Facebook. This decision by Wadebridge Town council saved approximately £2,000 but at what real cost? Locals new nothing of any of the three candidate's stance on important local issues, not least the battle of the Supermarkets.

In last Thursday's election former mayor Peter Meredith gained the most support, with 396 votes. The other successful candidate was Amanda Pennington with 281.

The third candidate, David Hutchings narrowly missed out with 222 votes.

Mr Meredith said: "I'm very pleased to get back on the council after a gap of around seven years, and hoping to be able to work with others to keep Wadebridge at the forefront of people-friendly towns."

"I was a bit daunted, though, by the amount of paperwork I received on popping into the town hall to sign my declaration of acceptance, and just hope Wadebridge Town Council hasn't succumbed to the paper-pushing and tick-list ideology that seems to stifle most things nowadays."

"The most important thing is to say thanks to all those who voted. I know the turnout wasn't brilliant, yet nevertheless a fair number made the effort, and should be thanked for taking an interest in what happens in their town."

Mrs Pennington said: "I would like to thank everybody who took the time to vote, even if it wasn't for me."

"I look forward to taking my seat on the council in the near future, and serving Wadebridge as best I can. I will endeavour to keep the town's best interests at the heart of everything I do while serving on the town council."