The count is finally complete – more than 1,389 local people voted for me. This is not enough to win against the Aspire machine, or the anti-Labour Green wave, but it is a big number for a first-time independent candidate. 

Because I stood on my personal track record and commitment to the community, there’s a clear meaning to all my votes. That’s a lot of people who want a local councillor who represents everyone, who will fight for safer streets and local community spaces, who will challenge housing organisations to manage their properties better and who will work with local charities and schools to improve youth skills and knowledge for the job market. 

I won’t be inside the council, but with the support of 1,389 local people behind me, I’m still in a position to make a difference on these topics for my neighbourhood and community. I need to take time to work out my best next move and i’ll talk to a range of people to explore my options.

I’m grateful to the dozens of people who’ve helped me since I decided to stand last July: the core team of Katy, Juliette, Madeleine and Rosie; the wider group who’ve helped with door knocking and leafleting; the digital crew; and the gang who helped to get out the vote on Thursday. And Jesse (and my wider family) for keeping our home life just about on track while I spent my evenings and weekends pounding the streets. Nobody was forced to help me and I’m honoured by the blood, sweat and tears!

I’m proud of what we’ve achieved. My credibility and reputation locally is significant. Let’s see where we can go from these foundations….