TO everyone in Minchinhampton, Chalford, Brimscombe and Thrupp, Thank you to everyone who voted last Thursday.

With your support we’ve doubled the Green voice on Gloucestershire Council Council, where I’m committed to bringing strong scrutiny, fresh ideas, and a focus on protecting our local environment.

To those who didn’t vote - I would urge you to make sure you are registered, and make sure you use your vote at the general election on June 8.

Your vote can make a difference.

During the campaign I had the chance to meet with many people, from all parties and none, working to make this area better - through parish councils, playgroups, community shops, wildlife groups and many other voluntary roles.

It will be a privilege to work with you all over the next four years.

Lastly, thanks to all the volunteers who helped us in getting out across the area to talk about local issues, from transparency to transport.

I am immensely proud of our campaign, which was hopeful, energetic and fired with the enthusiasm of so many people.

Rachel Smith

County councillor Minchinhampton Division