A Vote of Confidence – Thank You, Kingswood
It’s been a few days since the election results, and I’ve finally found a quiet moment to reflect and share an update.
After four weeks of intense campaigning, followed by two full days at the counts on Friday and Saturday, it’s been both energising and exhausting. But more than anything, it’s been humbling.
On Friday, we contested the North Northamptonshire Council election. In a very tough race between Labour and Reform UK, I received 218 votes, placing 8th out of 14 candidates. It was always going to be a challenge to break through against two national parties with strong campaign messages and resources. But I’m genuinely proud of what we achieved together, especially as a grassroots independent.
It was a privilege to meet with both incoming Reform UK and outgoing Labour Party councillors for Kingswood. Kingswood Ward had the unique distinction of going through five recounts to verify the result for the third seat—ultimately decided by a single vote. The experience was a powerful reminder of how much every vote matters.
What stood out most to me, though, was the kindness and generosity shown by experienced campaigners and councillors from all parties. Despite the emotions of the day, many took the time to share thoughtful advice and encouragement, which I deeply appreciated.
On Saturday, we returned for the Town and Parish elections. I was honoured to receive 985 votes, placing 3rd out of 6 and securing a seat on Corby Town Council for Kingswood Ward. To be elected as an independent, without party machinery behind me, and having only decided to run 29 days earlier, means more than I can express.
It’s a testament to the strength of our community that you put your trust in someone focused on Kingswood and Corby first. I will do everything I can to live up to that trust.
While Town Councils have limited powers compared to NNC or national government, the role still matters. I intend to use it to:
Raise community voices
Champion honesty, transparency, and accountability
Support the good work of public services and councillors at every level
It’s also clear that Reform UK’s success in North Northamptonshire sends a message. Many of their core principles, shared in their policy document, resonate beyond party lines:
Efficiency in Governance
Transparency and Accountability
Investment in Essential Services
Sustainable and Balanced Development
Community-Centric Leadership
These values matter to all of us. I look forward to working with councillors from all parties to ensure our communities are not just heard—but listened to.
Together, we’ve elected a strong and diverse team across both councils—Helen Campbell, Graham Cheatley, and Vlaho Radin as Reform UK councillors for Kingswood on North Northants Council, and Callum Faulds, Susanne Cunningham, and Christopher Moyo from the Labour Party to represent Kingswood on Corby Town Council.
In the coming days, I’ll be preparing for our first council meeting, while keeping community platforms like voiceforcorby.co.uk active so we can continue engaging together.
Thank you again, Kingswood. Let’s build something meaningful together.
Gary Campbell
Independent Councillor – Kingswood Ward
Corby Town Council
