Anthony Hunt

Leader of Torfaen County Borough Council

Elections are a great opportunity for local politicians. Yes, they are hard work – I wore out several sets of shoes and covered nearly 100 miles on foot in the last week of campaigning alone. But they get us out and about, listening to the concerns of people at first hand.

I’m grateful to the people of Torfaen for putting their trust in me and my Labour colleagues to stand up for Torfaen.

We will work hard to repay that trust and deliver on the priorities of residents. That’s not an easy task, especially if the current climate of funding cuts continues, but protecting our communities, delivering on public priorities and safeguarding vital public services must be at the forefront of our minds.

We must be straight with people and admit that, if funding cuts continue, we can’t do everything.

Setting clear priorities is key. Our new corporate plan sets three priorities – a cleaner and greener Torfaen, raising educational attainment, and supporting our most vulnerable residents. These priorities were set after wide consultation from residents.

After talking to voters on the doorstep, I remain convinced that these priorities are shared by the wider public.

I also want to work towards a strategic plan for the north of Torfaen.

Since becoming leader, I’ve spent a lot of time meeting people in communities like Blaenavon. Everyone knows about Blaenavon’s great heritage, but I’ve also seen a vibrant, innovative business community in and around the town.

As a council, we must work together with local people for the future of communities in the north of our Borough.

Unlike some national politicians, I don’t view opposition as a bad thing and want to work with people of all political opinions to deliver for the people we represent.

Politicians should always take care not to promise the earth – we must be realistic and straight with people that there is no magic wand that will solve every problem.

What I can promise is that, for as long as I am leader, I will work hard alongside my colleagues and do my best for the people who have put their trust in us.