You still matter, says new leader (From Tewkesbury Admag)

You still matter, says new leader

NEW Tory leader David Cameron has reassured his constituents in Chipping Norton and the surrounding area that he will continue to represent their interests.

The 39-year-old, who was elected MP for Witney in June 2001, told the Journal yesterday: " I will continue the work that I love best - representing the interests and concerns of all those that live in West Oxfordshire."

In addition to Chipping Norton, Mr Cameron's constituency includes Over Norton, Salford, Cornwell, Rollright, Chastleton, Kingham, Churchill and Idbury.

The new leader, whose resounding victory over rival David Davis was announced on Tuesday, has a weekend retreat in the village of Dean, near Chipping Norton, where TV star Ronnie Barker lived until his death earlier this year.

Local politicians were quick to heap praise on Mr Cameron.

Hilary Biles, Conservative county councillor for Chipping Norton, said: "I think it's absolutely fantastic. I think he will really give Tony Blair and the whole of the Labour Party a run for their money. I'm looking forward to the next election.

"It should be good for the area as he understands rural areas and one of the problems with Labour is they don't."

She added that she was confident that Mr Cameron would be able to maintain his constituency commitments, adding that Douglas Hurd had managed to do so when he was Witney MP and Foreign Secretary.

"I'm sure David will always remember where his roots are - and that's here," said Cllr Biles.

Chipping Norton Mayor Don Davidson, an Independent, congratulated Mr Cameron on his election.

"He's been a superb constituency MP and my only concern is he can continue to do that and lead the Conservative Party as well," said Cllr Davidson.

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Conservative MP for the neighbouring Cotswold constituency, described himself as "a converted Cameron supporter".

"He is a thoroughly decent, honest chap who I think will be very good for the Conservative Party. Overall what he is going to do is involve more people in the political process," said Mr Clifton-Brown, who is keen to keep his job as his party's assistant chief whip.

The Conservative leader of Gloucestershire County Council, Blockley-based Barry Dare, described Mr Cameron as "an acquaintance".

"He is very bright and identifies with people, particularly younger adults," said Cllr Dare.

Chipping Norton town councillor Gerry Alcock said Mr Cameron had been a "fabulous" constituency MP.

Chipping Norton Conservative district councillor Mike Howes said he expected Mr Cameron to keep up his constituency work.

"He has allocated Fridays and Saturdays to us but he told us this year that he wanted to keep Sundays sacrosanct for his family. I hope he will still be able to do that," said Cllr Howes.