Dear Editor,

I AM thrilled to have been elected as a Harlow District Councillor in yesterday’s (4th May 2023) elections to represent Mark Hall ward for the next year. 

I would like to thank every resident who took their time out of their day to vote. I promise I will work tirelessly for all within the Mark Hall ward and in Harlow.

I’d also like to pay tribute and say thanks to the outgoing Councillor Bob Davis, who stood down this year after many years of dedication and hard work within Mark Hall. Bob was an amazing Councillor and will certainly be a hard act to follow. 

A huge thank you to Cllr Lanie Shears, whose support during the campaign has been unrivalled as my agent, friend and now, colleague. 

Thanks also to all the Labour Party members who have campaigned all year round.

Upon reflection, last night’s result for Labour was a positive one. Considering the result two years ago, we’ve made an incredible comeback and look forward to campaigning to retake the Council from this financially reckless and chaotic incumbent Tory administration. 

I’m really looking forward to joining the Labour Group and working to improve Harlow and Mark Hall for the better. I’ll be back out on the doorstep very soon, talking to the residents within Mark Hall and listening to what they would like improved in Mark Hall and the town. 

I would like to extend an invitation to Mark Hall ward residents, to come along to my Ward Surgery with Cllr Lanie Shears’ in Mark Hall Library on Saturday 13th May at 10am. 

I can’t wait to get started; The hard work starts now!

Councillor Aiden O’Dell (Lab)