Simon Danczuk MP

Fighting for Rochdale, Littleborough and Milnrow

Phill Bethell: Balderstone and Kirkholt’s Labour candidate for 2011 local elections

Phillip Bethell has been selected as Labour’s candidate for Balderstone and Kirkholt. Phill is an avid campaigner and has a well developed understanding of the area, its people and its history. From opposing the removal of council tenants’ rights to supporting the campaign to restore Queensway’s bus service, Phill is always on the side of local residents.

Phill is passionate about restoring the vital bus service for residents living off Queensway in Kirkholt. The number 6 and 7 bus service has been merged and has caused particular distress to elderly residents living in Ian Fraser Court. Phill said: “Following a career as a bank official, I recently retired; like many pensioners, I worry about public transport provision. Indeed, local residents of all ages have expressed their concerns about the future of local bus services. I oppose cuts to public transport in this area and, when elected, will ensure that residents have access to the first-rate transport system they deserve.”

Police services are also an area of concern; Phill has run several courses in Rochdale involving police and neighbourhood services.

Phill said: “The Conservative-led government’s plan to cut front-line police in Greater Manchester by 1,300 is an outrage – this could do serious damage to our town and I’m campaigning to keep as many police on our streets as possible.”