Of course it all began months and months ago. Then a deluge of deliveries, a catalogue of canvassing sessions, a multitude of meetings and one Brand Spanking New Blue Paisley tie later, and I was suddenly the Brand Spanking New Blue Bixley Councillor for the Borough of Ipswich!
This is what happened next…
Thursday May 5th 2011
Polling Day. Although I’ve spent months getting to know my constituency, I live in town and can’t vote for myself! It’s down to the good people of Bixley I’m afraid…
Friday May 6th 2011
Day of the Count. I arrive at 9am at Ipswich Town Hall ready to oversee verification of the AV Vote. We all know the result, but its belt and braces today, so it’s eyes down. This phase is followed by verification of the IBC vote and both the counts.
Thanks to the good people of Bixley I manage to stave off the stubborn resistance of Elango Elavalakan (Labour), and am elected for the very first time! There was, quite rightly, a resounding NO to AV in the other count.
Monday May 9th 2011
Suited, booted and full of importance I carry out my first visit as Councillor Stroet with fellow Councillors, E and R Harsant. We arrived at The Tree House ready for a pre-planned tour of the facility. Oh No! We’ve got the wrong day. What a start! However, all was not lost as we were conducted about this wonderful new facility on a private tour. This is a state of the art hospice for our children and their families that the town can be proud of.
Tuesday May 10th 2011
My first Induction session at Grafton House. It is scheduled for the Orwell Room. (A space I am to get to know very well over the coming months.) My picture is taken for the IBC website and another is taken for my ID card. I try to look determined and serious minded. I wonder if it worked?
Friday May 13th 2011
Conservative Group Meeting. I’ve taken part in a number of these as part of my preparations for becoming a councillor. This is the first meeting where my comments will be minuted. I spend more time listening than talking whilst I adjust to my new role. They all sound very wise!