The nomination period for Berwick Castle ward’s forthcoming by-election expired today with three candidates throwing their hats in the ring.
Dave Hay will stand for Labour, Stephen Scott as an Independent and Colin Hardy for the Conservative Party.
Colin Hardy has previously represented the area on Northumberland County Council (Norham & Islandshires).
Stephen Scott is a businessman in Berwick and chairs Berwick Chamber of Trade and Commerce.
Dave Hay has already had queries about his intentions for Berwick on his campaign Facebook page.
Stephen Scott has been Chair of Berwick Chamber of Trade and Commerce since 2019. He runs an award-winning B&B in Berwick.
‘My work through the Chamber of Trade gives me regular contact with both the Town Council and the County Council,’ said Stephen Scott. ‘I feel that this experience puts me in a good position to be an effective Parish Councillor quickly.
‘I believe that in the last year or two, the Town Council have made some good improvements that have benefitted the Town. This needs to continue, but I’d also like to ensure that there is a strong focus on service levels and value for money.’
Dave Hay’s election leaflet says: ‘Berwick has huge potential to grow, prosper and thrive. I live in Berwick, I understand the challenges we have. But too often, residents don’t feel heard. They feel left behind, overlooked, and disconnected from the decisions that affect their lives.
‘I know that feeling because I’ve felt it too. That’s why I’m committed to making sure your voice is heard — at the Town Council and beyond.’
NCC Councillor Nicole Brooke had previously expressed her intention to stand. Today she said: ‘After a lot of thought, I’ve decided not to stand in the forthcoming Town Council election.
‘When I first said I was prepared to stand, much of that was because I wanted to make sure Berwick actually got an election. In a year when the Town Council increased its precept, Berwickers deserved a real say.’
