The Labour movement has always revolved around teamwork, and that is nowhere more evident than at Annfield Plain, where the election is being fought by the “A” Team.
Candidates Doug Carmichael and Jeanette Stephenson make up the team, both aiming to represent the ward in County Hall for the first time.
With current incumbents Michelle Hodgson and Thomas Nearney standing down, Doug and Jeanette have formed a formidable partnership to inject positivity and vibrancy into the Annfield Plain division.
Jeanette said: “I have lived in the Annfield Plain ward my whole life and worked for the County Councl for 35 years, so I hope to bring a wealth of local knowledge and experience of how councils operate to the role.”
A Greencroft resident, Jeanette is passionate about women’s issues and is currently at the forefront of the county WASPI fight to ensure fair pension rights for women born in the 1950s.
Doug, of Catchgate, has immersed himself in community activities since arriving in the division three and a half years ago. A Canadian, he has established himself as the “go to guy” for projects to improve the environment, in particular.
“We have formed the “A” Team,” said Doug. “We are able, we are active and we are accessible and we aim to deliver for Annfield Plain.
“I bring a wealth of international expertise, having worked in finance in Canadian local Government and also worked as an elected councillor in Shropshire, before we moved to County Durham.”
While still only candidates, the formidable team is already delivering positive change across the community. Doug winning a clutch of awards for his Community Horticulture and Planter Society (CHAPS), which offers free planters and bulbs to residents, while encouraging them to interact with each other and instil a sense of civic pride.
Doug said: “Between the two of us, the people of the Annfield Plan division are getting a team that understands the community’s needs and aspirations, that recognises the challenges that undoubtedly lie ahead, but who will also move forward as a team to achieve great things for this fantastic community.”
“We will make sure the people of this ward know who we are and how we will support them,” added Jeanette.
Hear more from Jeanette about why she feels #LabourWorks for County Durham:
Hear more from Doug about why #LabourWorks for Annfield Plain: