The End of an Era

Two weeks ago now I resigned as Chair of Manchester Labour Students. In June I will be graduating from the University of Manchester with a degree in politics (I hope!). It has been 3 long and eventful years and I have loved every second of my involvement with Labour Students.

I am proud of the achievements of the Labour Club and I am proud of my own personal achievements. Labour Students offers people as an organisation the most incredible of experiences. I have met Tony Blair, been to a drinks reception at Downing Street, seen most cabinet ministers give speeches and met some amazing friends.

In my time as Chair we doubled the membership, improved our links with the local party, held events with Cabinet Ministers, developed a reputation as a campaigning Labour Club and delivered time and time again when we were needed most.

But I never forget why I do this, why I fight so hard, why I give up my life to take up rhetorical arms and pound the streets of this country; because I believe in something.

I was campaigning a few weeks ago and someone said to me "I'm a pensioner who do you think I am voting for?" That is the legacy of 12 years of Labour Government. Services transformed for the people that need them most, our country rebuilt and reshaped and the economy radically transformed and saved from Tory mismanagement. That is why I fight; because this is a legacy that needs defending.

I am proud of my achievements but more than that I am proud of the achievements of this Government and I will never stop fighting for something I so passionately believe is right.

Richard Neudegg, the new Labour Club Chair, I know will do a great job. I wish him and the rest of the club the best for the future and I know that this Club will go from strength to strength.