In Caldecott ward there were three parties fully involved… yellow (Liberal), red (Labour) and blue (Conservative). Labour put all their eggs in one basket as councillors and activists from Oxford, and activists from around the Vale were seen around Caldecott trying to get a unique Labour win.
The number of leaflets, and canvassing from the yellows, reds, and blues had been too much for some people, who were not used to such full on campaigning, or so many high profile visiors. There was Harriet Harman (Labour Deputy Leader), Andrew Smith MP, John Tanner and others for Labour, and Nicola Blackwood MP and Keith Mitchell CBE, leader of Oxfordshire County Council, for the conservatives. Keith Mitchell said in his April 11th tweet “Canvassing Caldecott ward tonight in Abingdon with a good team of Conservative supporters. No-one willing to admit to voting Liberal!”
Most people were excited and engaged by the Caldecott local election. I stood there as a Liberal and should know later today whether I shall continue representing the area, or whether it is time to try something else.
