The Rock Blog

I knew the first few weeks post-election would be busy but I had not quite expected the deluge to start before I had been elected!

Prior to Spring Forum, I met with many people involved with the Party and CCHQ. I’ve had to establish and negotiate the targets the new executive need to meet.

In Gateshead, I had the chance to meet CFers from Newcastle, York, Cheshire and Scotland. I was particularly pleased to meet so many members who had supported me and offer my thanks to them!

The National Convention was absorbing, with Caroline Spelman and William Hague giving speeches. I was introduced to the members, albeit from the balcony! I missed the opportunity to promote the CF event the next day but it was very well attended, with a tremendous range of attendees.

The CF social event had a great turnout, with members arriving from the TFA and TRG events then going on to the CWF event. Having lived in the North-East, it was great to go back and see such a strong Tory presence.

Looking forward to Birmingham already!

Howay the lads! I seem to be heading back to all my old stomping grounds and an evening with the Newcastle Uni CF was not different! Starting at The Goose on Percy Street, we headed onto a couple of places I hadn’t been to before as Newcastle has changed quite a bit in the last six years.

The University association has always been strong and the present group are sound Tories! After a couple of personnel issues earlier in the term, Steven Bainbridge has really turned things around and, once again, the society is flourishing.

The thing I’ve enjoyed the most about travelling around the country is that I get to speak to normal Conservatives! Having lived and worked in the North East, I know how lonely it can be as a Tory and I commend the work the committee have put in for Newcastle Uni CF.