LETTER: UKIP stalwart steps down

Ron has decided to retire from politics at a time when he promised himself he always would. He has been a member of UKIP for six years and became heavily involved with the party prior to the 2010 General Election. He also represented UKIP at last year’s local elections and polled a very credidable 15% share of the vote in the Henthorn and Low Moor ward.

Ron has been instrumental in promoting the UKIP brand across the Ribble Valley and in helping to start a local branch. Until his retirement he had been treasurer and one of three officers heading the Ribble Valley branch.

On a personal note I would like to record my thanks to Ron for his assistance during my 2010 General Election campaign, when he acted as my agent, and again at the Salthill by-election last year. His knowledge and experience were invaluable.

He was an integral part of the team that saw the UKIP general election vote almost treble on the 2005 result. I would also applaud his efforts in last year’s local elections. He has been instrumental in increasing the public’s awareness of UKIP locally and I wish him a happy retirement.

STEVE RUSH,

Chairman of UKIP East Lancashire