The two mainstream parties so long entrenched in misgovernment could be challenged by good local independents

David Tully (left), an independent candidate, came second in the Rochdale by-election. He calls himself a “local lad” who is committed to the principles of integrity, transparency and inclusivity to find the practical solutions for Rochdale’s benefit:

“I want every voice to be heard and not to leave the decline of our town for our children to deal with.”

He has supported and worked for many charitable causes such as the British Heart Foundation, the MND Association and local charity the SG6 Foundation. His policies focus on key local issues, advocating:

• the reinstatement of the Maternity Ward,
• zero tolerance for speeding motorists across the borough,
• aid for local businesses, advocating subsidies for operational costs,
• the creation of central support and funding for all amateur sports clubs across the borough to empower and inspire our children to be active and improve mental wellbeing,
• support and funding to secure the future of Rochdale AFC and Rochdale Hornets,
• fighting for more support and funding for the running costs of Springhill Hospice and Rochdale Children’s Moorland Home,
• highlighting the challenges, financial hurdles and issues being faced daily by people unable to work due to taking full time care of their loved ones
• and supporting and challenging our council to be more accountable and transparent (Mancunian matters).

Those who feel that it is impossible to stand as an Independent without the support of party funding for leaflets etc can take heart from reports of using fundraising and crowd-funding sites to raise the £500 deposit (BBC). They can also remember that more people now get their information online: 47% from the website of professional publishers, 35% from TV, 33% social media, 24% radio and 15% printed publications (Press Gazette survey).

Former MP Dr Richard Taylor did this in Kidderminster.

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