Bolton’s Labour Councillors have elected new leader, Cllr Nick Peel, in what marks a fresh start for the Local Party. Cllr Peel, who has represented Tonge with the Haulgh ward since 2000, will take over from Cllr Linda Thomas.

Cllr Peel said:

“I want to thank my colleagues for putting their trust in me in what is a difficult time for us all. All of our minds are focussed on the current pandemic, but democracy continues and we need to look forward to life after lockdown.

Labour needs to start a new conversation with the people of Bolton and not be afraid of taking some criticism for our past mistakes.

Our Party, both nationally and locally appears to have lost its way. That’s our fault alone, and no one else’s.

Keir Starmer’s election as the Leader is the first of many steps into regaining that lost trust. I want the Bolton Labour Group and the local Party to make as its priority the task of regaining the trust of local people.”

Halliwell Councillor Akhtar Zaman has been elected to the position of Deputy Leader.