13/05/2026
People often overlook the work of councillors. Mostly, it's a long slog of backroom committees to determine the best direction or decision based on facts available at that time.
My experience over the last few years has taught me that this is a long game and that change can take time. It was great to be in the company of these 3 town stalwarts today. Cllr Fred Jackson, Former Cllr David Owen and Cllr Ivan Taylor.
Between them they have decades and decades of experience in how this town runs, the needs of residents and the options that are available at any given time.
Cllr Ivan Taylor is now the longest serving councillor in England, having represented residents of this town right back to 1966.. I remember former Cllr Lily Henderson holding this honour before she passed away a few years ago.
We may not always agree on politics, we shouldn't. We may not always agree on outcomes, again, if there's going to be points of difference, we shouldn't.
What we will all agree on, as councillors and former councillors is the level of commitment required to do the role properly.
As Blackpool appoints a new mayor in Cllr Danny Scott, I pay tribute to his excellent contribution in the committees I have attended. We often share a warm word and a joke and I'm happy to say that like all councillors, we get on, cross party, for the good of Blackpool.
A good tonic to a difficult week. It's always nice to be at mayor making and if you see any of these town champions, ask them for their memories or their sage advice- you don't have to take it but I'm sure they'd be happy to share.
Blackpool Stalwarts. Good to see Ivan marking the occasion in a Blackpool Football Club tie as well, I may steal that touch going forwards. 🧡
