It was a whirlwind of activity and inspiration as our local councillors, Angela Sterling and Michelle Walton, representing the Delves Lane ward, embarked on an unforgettable journey at the Conservative Party Conference 2023.
Connecting with the Prime Minister: Rishi Sunak
One of the standout moments was a captivating Q&A session with none other than Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. What made it truly special was the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister in person, enabling them to discuss the intricacies of their ward and the aspirations they hold for their constituents.
Strengthening Local Ties: MPs, County Councillors, and More
Our councillors were delighted to catch up with our dedicated local MPs, county councillors, and even had the privilege to engage with Police Commissioner candidate Robert Potts. These interactions emphasised the importance of a united front in addressing the issues that matter most to our local community.
Exploring Seminars of Interest
Angela and Michelle attended a series of seminars designed to address topics close to the hearts of their constituents. These seminars covered a broad spectrum of subjects including:

• Ensuring that all children engage fully with education.
• Tackling hardship in later life, a concern that resonates with many residents.
• Local government services, vital for our community's well-being.
• Improving cyber security, recognizing the importance of digital safety.
• Tackling environmental issues, aligning with our commitment to sustainability.
• Empowering young people to become financially resilient.
• Understanding how logistics can drive growth in the North.
• The future of work for women.
• The evolution of apprenticeships, an opportunity for skill development.

Keynote Speech by the Prime Minister
The highlight of the conference was undoubtedly the keynote speech by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. During his address, the Prime Minister unveiled a series of impactful plans, setting the stage for the future:

• Scrapping the northern leg of HS2 and redirecting the funds into new transport projects in the North and Midlands, addressing vital infrastructure needs.
• Commitment to raising the smoking age by one year annually, ensuring that young individuals are less likely to start smoking.
• Plans to restrict the availability of vapes to children, aligning with the long-standing advocacy of our Delves councillors.
• A major reform of secondary school qualifications, introducing the "Advanced British Standard," which will broaden students' subject coverage.
• A pragmatic and proportionate approach to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, emphasizing flexibility and adaptability.

Our local councillors, Angela Sterling and Michelle Walton, returned from the Conservative Party Conference 2023 invigorated, armed with insights and ideas to benefit our community. They are committed to implementing these learnings in the Delves Lane ward and continuing to represent the interests and concerns of their constituents.

The political stage is set, and excitement is building as we approach the eagerly awaited Conservative Party Conference 2023. Among the numerous attendees who are gearing up for this remarkable event are our very own local Conservative councillors, Angela Sterling and Michelle Walton, representing the Delves Lane Division in Consett, County Durham.
A Dynamic Duo in Local Governance
Angela Sterling and Michelle Walton have been a dynamic duo in local governance, tirelessly working to address the needs and concerns of their community. Their dedication to serving the people of Delves Lane Division has been unwavering, and they have consistently demonstrated their commitment to Conservative values.
What Awaits at Conservative Party Conference 2023?
The Conservative Party Conference is a significant event on the political calendar, providing an invaluable platform for discussions, debates, and the exchange of ideas. Councillors Sterling and Walton are looking forward to engaging with fellow Conservatives from across the country and gaining insights into the latest policy developments.
Networking Opportunities
One of the most exciting aspects of attending the conference is the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals who share a passion for Conservative values. Councillors Sterling and Walton will have the chance to connect with fellow councillors, MPs, party members, and influential figures from various sectors. These connections can lead to fruitful collaborations and the exchange of best practices, ultimately benefiting their local constituents.
Informative Sessions
The Conservative Party Conference features a diverse range of sessions and panel discussions on pressing issues facing our country. Councillors Sterling and Walton are eager to participate in these sessions, gaining fresh perspectives and valuable knowledge that they can apply to their roles as local representatives.
Representing Delves Lane Division
As they attend the Conservative Party Conference 2023, Councillors Sterling and Walton will be carrying the voices and concerns of their constituents from Delves Lane Division. They understand the importance of staying connected with the grassroots level of their community and ensuring that their constituents' voices are heard at the national level.
A Bright Future Ahead
With their dedication to their community and their active participation in national political events like the Conservative Party Conference, Angela Sterling and Michelle Walton are not only making a difference locally but also contributing to the broader Conservative movement.
Councillors Angela Sterling and Michelle Walton's strong commitment to serving their community and their engagement in national politics is a shining example of the dedication and passion that Conservative councillors bring to their roles.
Stay tuned for updates from the conference as our local councillors share their experiences, insights, and the knowledge they gain from this exciting event!

The excitement was palpable as we stepped into the buzzing atmosphere of the Conservative Party Conference 2023. We were thrilled to be part of this grand political gathering as your local councillors.
A Day of Informative and Inspiring Sessions
Day one of the conference was packed with insightful sessions, thought-provoking discussions, and the opportunity to connect with fellow Conservatives who share our passion for our community and our country.
Q&A Session with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak
One of the highlights of the day was the Q&A session with none other than Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The reassurance he provided during this session was particularly heartening. We are pleased to report that the pension triple lock will indeed be staying. This decision will undoubtedly provide much-needed peace of mind to many of our residents, especially our penioners who rely on their pensions.
Connecting with Local MPs
In the spirit of unity and collaboration, we also had the privilege of catching up with our dedicated local MPs – Richard Holden, Paul Howell, and Guy Opperman. These conversations reaffirmed our commitment to working together to address the issues that matter most to our constituents in Delves Lane Division.
Supporting Small Businesses
Our community is home to many small businesses, and we understand just how crucial they are to our local economy. That's why we made it a point to attend a seminar led by Liam Fox MP and The Federation of Small Businesses. The seminar shed light on the government's support for small businesses and how this support will continue to be a top priority moving forward.
The Northern Reception: A Commitment to the North
As the day drew to a close, we attended the Northern reception, where Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reiterated his commitment to the North. We were delighted to hear his vision for our region.
A Personal Chat with the Prime Minister
But perhaps the most memorable moment of the day was when Prime Minister Rishi Sunak himself made a beeline to chat with us. We had the opportunity to discuss our ward, our community, and the aspirations we hold for the people we represent.
As we reflect on day one of the Conservative Party Conference 2023, we are invigorated by the knowledge and insights gained and inspired by the commitment we witnessed from our party leaders. Stay tuned for more updates from the conference as we delve into more discussions, engage with fellow Conservatives, and bring the knowledge we gain back to our beloved community in Consett.

Happy Friday everyone! Another lovely week across our ward! This week we…

• Took part in the #CrookhallCommunityCentre committee meeting, we are so proud of everything they do!
• Popped in to the centre later in the week to meet the friendship group. They meet every Friday 3pm until 5pm, new members always welcome
• Promoted the Apprenticeship Fair at #DerwentsideCollege organised by #RichardHoldenMP
• Visited a Durham County Council children’s home and spent time getting to know the young people and staff who are all doing a fantastic job to support them
• Supported a DCC school through an OfSted visit as governor
• Helped a local group with a pressing planning issue which was sorted out for them, thanks to all involved!

#delvescouncillors #DelvesLane #delves #consett #templetown #crookhall #knitsley #stationroad #MamsThatCan

We hope you’re all having a wonderful weekend. This is what we’ve been up to this week…

• Michelle took part in the Mountsett Crematorium Joint Committee meeting
• Happy 3rd Business Birthday to one of our wonderful local businesses, #CreativeKitchen
• We met with young people at #PremierLeagueKicks at #DelvesLaneVillageHall as part of #FoundationOfLight to learn about their new environment project. We LOVED how inquisitive you all are and can’t wait to see you all progress with this important project
• Angela accepted a Governor role at #DelvesLanePrimarySchool
• Continued to help residents with different local issues

#delvescouncillors #DelvesLane #delves #consett #templetown #crookhall #knitsley #stationroad #MamsThatCan

We hope you’ve had a lovely week, here’s what we’ve been up to…
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• We attended full council this week. Watch again at https://www.youtube.com/live/zutEHIPgblY
• Attended the AAP meeting where #CrookhallVillageHall were successful in their bid for the Meet By The Seat project. They wowed funders with an amazing pitch, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house and they absolutely deserves the full amount they were asking for - well done!!
• Today was the Corporate Parenting Panel at County Hall
• We supported residents concerned about developers proposing new housing in our ward, we are keeping a close eye on this
• We helped residents with all kinds of issues
• This is our birthday week (one at the start and one at the end) so we finished the week with a lovely lunch at #thetravellersrest_consett

#delvescouncillors #DelvesLane #delves #consett #templetown #crookhall #knitsley #stationroad #MamsThatCan

Another busy week! This week we…

• Attended Highways Committee where Angela proposed some improvements to help with parking around schools in #Lanchester
• Popped in to #Rendles who are celebrating a massive FIFTY years in business! Huge congratulations
• Met with Derwentside AAP to look at our budget for community improvements. Look out for new community groups, road signage improvements and play park changes coming asap
• Helped residents with speculative planning in our ward

#delvescouncillors #DelvesLane #delves #consett #templetown #crookhall #knitsley #stationroad #MamsThatCan

We hope you’re all managing to stay safe and warm!
Remember that there are warm spaces in our community accessible to all including Delves Lane Village Hall and Delves Lane Methodist Church among others across Consett. https://www.durhamlocate.org.uk/Search?CategoryId=152...

This week we:

• Attended full council at County Hall where we voted for the best possible devolution deal for Co Durham. Watch the meeting at https://youtu.be/9YNo2EPVjKI
• Attended our local AAP meeting
• Met with residents about planning at Erwin Hymer
• Conducted residents surveys at Chapel Drive (thanks for answering the door in the show!)

#delvescouncillors #DelvesLane #delves #consett #templetown #crookhall #knitsely #stationroad #MamsThatCan

We've loved seeing all the Christmas decorations around our ward this week. This week we:
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• Attended the Derwent Valley Partnership - AAP meeting and their fantastic FREE family event to switch on Christmas tree lights, we loved seeing everyone dancing and singing along
• Visited a local business to discuss resident concerns about parking
• Used some of our funding to support local area Christmas events
• Walked around Sunningdale area with some of our campaign team and asked residents to tell us what other things they'd like us to work on for them. If you missed us, please fill in the survey we left and get it back to us
• Attended the North West Durham Conservatives Christmas party and enjoyed catching up with everyone