TL;DR – Why This Election Is Local, Not Political

• Local elections aren’t about national issues — they’re about our town, our services, and our quality of life.
• Ian is standing as a local candidate with business experience, time, and drive to make a real difference.
• He’ll focus on potholes, policing, council waste, green spaces, Church Street regeneration, and public safety.
• Don’t just comment — start a conversation. Ian is listening.
• Vote for real action in Seaham — not national slogans.

Following my recent Facebook post about running as the Conservative candidate in the upcoming local council elections on 1st May, I’ve had a number of responses — and I want to thank everyone who’s taken the time to engage, even briefly.

Many comments have simply said one word: “Reform.” And while I respect everyone’s political opinions, I’d like to say this — if you’ve got something to say, let’s have a proper conversation. My website is open, my inbox is open, and I’m always happy to discuss the future of Seaham with anyone who wants to contribute to making it better.

You’re Not Just Voting for a Party — You’re Voting for a Person
Let me be clear: I understand that not everyone who supports me is necessarily voting for the Conservative Party. Many of you have told me directly that you’re voting for me, because of who I am, what I stand for, and the experience I bring to the role.

I’m proud of that. I’m from Seaham. I’ve run successful businesses. I’m now retired, and that means I have the time, energy, and focus to devote fully to this role without the distraction of another job. Being a councillor is a serious responsibility — and I want to give it the attention and commitment it deserves.

This Election Is About Seaham — Not National Headlines
Some parties, like Reform, are gaining attention at the national level — often thanks to high-profile figures like Nigel Farage. His face appears on every leaflet. But let’s remember something important:

This is not a General Election. It’s a Local Election.

No one elected to Durham County Council next month is going to stop small boats crossing the Channel. No local councillor can fix the NHS, overhaul energy policy, or singlehandedly influence global immigration.

But what can be fixed are the things that affect your daily life in Seaham. And that’s exactly what I’m focused on.

These Are Your Priorities — And Mine
Thanks to the hundreds of forms many of you returned over the past weeks, I’ve heard what matters most to you. And it’s no surprise — these are the same issues that affect me and my family too:

• Fixing potholes and improving roads
• A more visible police presence to reduce crime and make our streets safer
• Lower Council Tax and better value for money
• Regenerating Church Street and improving our town centre
• Cutting council waste and red tape
• Tackling crime and anti-social behaviour head on
• Protecting green spaces from unnecessary development
• Improving transport links — cleaner, more reliable services
• Caring for our elderly and vulnerable neighbours

These are not pipe dreams. They are practical, local issues — and I will tackle them with energy and determination if you give me the opportunity.

Let’s Have a Real Conversation About Seaham’s Future
We don’t have to agree on everything to work together. I welcome views from across the political spectrum. But I ask you this:

• If you care about Seaham…
• If you want real representation from someone who lives here and understands the town…
• If you’re tired of empty promises and want to see action…

Then get in touch. Share your thoughts. Ask questions. Let’s work together.

And, most importantly — if you believe in the kind of town we all know Seaham can be — give me your vote on 1st May.

Let’s stop shouting slogans and start solving problems.

📧 Get in touch: Drop me a line
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Let’s make Seaham stronger — together.

Promoted by Tom Baker on behalf of Ian McAndrew at Conservative Office, Creative Business Park, Riverside Ind Est.. Langley Park, Durham, DH7 9TY