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New Denton councillor one of the youngest in the country

George Jones is the new councillor for Denton West after winning last Thursday [December 12] by-election.

He replaces the outgoing Dawson Lane, who has retired to spend more time with his family.

Aged only 19, he is not only the youngest councillor in Tameside, but amongst the youngest in the country.

A total of 5739 votes were cast, with Labour candidate George taking home 3,041 of them - 53%.

He beat out Thomas Dunne from the Conservative party, who polled 37% of the votes, Jean Smee from the Greens with 5% and Alice Mason-Power from the Liberal Democrats who took home 4%.

A delighted George told the Reporter he was excited to start work representing his constituents in Denton West. “For me, it’s a privilege to be able to support these people. I live here and I’m a local lad. I’m delighted but it’s not about me, it’s about them and making the community a better place.”

His campaign was ran around three issues - “Cleaner, greener and safer.” George explained: “My motto covers all basis. We want a cleaner community, not just the basics. If we all work together and take responsibility we can have that. I want to do my bit.

“Greener is me looking towards the future. Greener transport and better access.

“I use public transport myself and I think we can do better in my ward. I want to stand there and make that case.”

Cllr Jones will also be campaigning on the issue of air quality, with Denton West containing the Denton Rock roundabout - one of the most polluted roundabouts in the area.

Policing is a priority for the young councillor, particularly preventative measures. “We’ve got to work together to make people safer. I attend the neighbourhood watch meetings both as a resident and candidate. That’s one of our strengths in Denton West. The prime minister talked about more police and I want to make sure we get our fair share.”

As one of the youngest councillors in the country, he says he wants to be a voice for the younger generation and break stereotypes. “It’s about being a voice for young people.

“It’s a privilege and about showing they can make a difference, they are engaged and they do want to make a change.”

George will serve as the councillor until next May, when his seat will again be up for election.

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