Conservative Councillor Paul Rone (Redhill) has confirmed that he won’t be standing for election in the forthcoming local elections after falling out of love with politics.

Cllr Rone shared the following message on social media this evening:

“My Dear Constituents and friends

It has been my absolute privilege to represent Redhill since you elected me in 2011, being a councillor has been the most rewarding, humbling and yet the most frustrating job, I have however fallen out of love with politics so I will not be seeking re-election in May.

“My beautiful wife Jules has been invaluable in helping me carry out my work at all times, she has been my secretary, diary keeper and to some, a shoulder to cry on. I couldn’t have done it without her and I thank her dearly for that.

“Herefordshire is very fortunate to have some wonderful council officers whom love where they live and do a great job everyday. Wendy, Sonia, Matt, Kelly, Steve to name just a few, thank you for all you did for me and all you do for the residents of Redhill and the county as a whole everyday.

“I am disappointed in our political leaders that hold some of the highest offices of state, their behaviour and poor decision making has been part of my reason for standing down, I will caveat that with a mention of our MP Jesse Norman who I have worked with many times over the years, he is honest, hardworking and does genuinely care about Herefordshire. Our own conservative councillors group has more sincerity and integrity than many of those in Westminster.

“I am looking forward to continuing my volunteer roles at the fantastic Kindle Centre and I will still be a familiar sight litter picking with the excellent HCCuG.

“Thank you to all those that voted for me over the years and to all those that I have helped and worked with but my last words are for the young people whom I’ve had contact with as a corporate parent. 

“A county councillor is deemed a corporate parent to all children that are or have been in the care system and to all those that I’ve helped and stood along side – and you know who you are – I may not be there for you officially anymore, but if you need anything, 

“I hope that I may be one of your first ports of call and I will do all I can for you.

“With kind regards and great affection for you all.”

Paul Rone – Redhill Ward Councillor