As we approach Christmas Day and the New Year, I send best wishes to you and your families from Northumberland Labour.

This has been yet another difficult year for so many people in our county with cost of living rises and spiralling energy costs. We should be able to look to the government to support its people, but that support has been lacking for so many years now it has, very sadly, almost become normal.

I would like to pay tribute to the many fantastic people right across Northumberland who have stepped in where the government has not to work in food, equipment and clothes banks to help and support people who are struggling. I have met many inspiring volunteers who do amazing work; my grateful thanks to all of them.  

In what could otherwise be a very bleak time we have seen some light on the horizon. The new rail link from South East Northumberland to Newcastle is well underway. Huge projects like this take years to achieve and it’s often a case of two steps forward and one back which I know is frustrating for local people. Often people don’t recognize the initiation of these projects by previous Labour administrations and to them we must give thanks for having that determination to deliver. Places like Ashington and Blyth have been badly let down and now, as elections approach public announcements are made…..all I can do is assure people that a Northumberland Labour run Council will deliver for all, every community across Northumberland 2025 will be a renewal of hope and support for the communities left behind and that is where I will need your help to kick the Conservatives out of County Hall. We cannot have another 5yrs of scandal and embarrassment, Northumberland residents deserve better. 

I have visited businesses across our county who are committed to sustainability and providing good jobs for people in our county. It does frustrate me that the government thinks and acts for London and, apart from counties like Cornwall, we’re about as far away as you can get. However, what I see when I’m going around Northumberland is enthusiastic, passionate people who care deeply about our county and its people. They’re getting on with making things better, with or without government support.

I would like to also pay tribute to all Labour councillors in Northumberland who have worked tirelessly throughout the year on behalf of the people they serve. I would also like to thank all the Labour members and supporters across Northumberland who have helped us. 

I wish you, your families and friends the happiest Christmas possible and a safe, peaceful and healthy 2024.

With my very best wishes

Councillor Scott Dickinson

Leader, Northumberland Labour