Words by Nicola Murray
With all single councillor words being called first, the room is starting to empty as the focus turns to wards with two seats being contested. And in the Erdington constituency, Stockland Green will be one of the most fiercely fought.
Ahead of any more results coming in, Nicola Murray caught up with Sam Richards – one of three independent candidates contesting Stockland Green, and the only non-party affiliated name on the ballot paper that is not currently in office.
——
After Ward End seeing a landslide independent victory, how does that make you feel about your chances in Stockland Green?
Sam Richards: “I think it is interesting because there is independent candidate alliance and I think they have done very well and they have shown what happens when people come out and vote and for me that is the encouraging thing moving forward; inspiring more people to get involved, to come out and have their say.”
How does the results of the previous Erdington wards make you feel going into your own ward’s election?
Sam Richards: “Anything is possible, we’re in a really interesting time and I am excited about the future. The election is one day, but the reality of it is what happens after that. For me, and our work in the community I am just excited to propel forwards.”
Have you been speaking to your fellow candidates in Stockland Green today, and what is the environment there?
Sam Richards: “Yes, and I get along well with all of them, and when I was at the council house they were confused as to why I was smiling to everyone, but for me, it isn’t about politics. If we put all of our focus on standing against each other, we are not focused on what is important – which is the community.
“We have had some good chats; there have been some ideas about who is in what position already. But for me, it is about what we do going forward.”
——
Erdington Local also reached out to one of the Labour candidates for Stockland Green, who was standing near Sam Richards at the time, but they were unwilling to comment.
Results for the Stockland Green Ward will be announced this afternoon.
What I want to know is what will you do about all the illegal parking along and around slade Road. What about HMO and the problem with drugs and prostitution,