Seven step into breach left by the 'Mickleton five'

Councillors at Mickleton were forced to step down earlier this year after sticking to their guns over a unanimous decision not to sign a new code of conduct or register their financial and other interests for all to access.

This left the village in limbo, with the parish council affairs, such as the setting of the annual precept, falling under the responsibility of Teesdale District Council.

But, largely due to the work behind the scenes of district councillor Madeleine Walton and parish clerk Ghita Harbour, seven residents have now indicated that they wish to be appointed. All have stated they are willing to abide by the code's requirements, including the registration of their financial interests.

Former policeman Ken Saxby is one of those to put his name forward. He told the D&S Times he did not like to see Mickleton without any representation.

"The people of the village should have a say in what's going on," he said. "The playing field needs looking after, and there is maintenance to be done, just general purpose stuff really."

Mr Saxby is no stranger to local politics, having previously served as a district councillor, and is looking forward to working alongside the other new councillors, who will remain in place until the next elections in 2007.

Coun Walton said she was delighted that seven new faces had stepped forward, and that it was such a good mix. "There are a couple of young mums and, while not denigrating the work of previous councillors, fresh blood can mean fresh ideas," she added. "It is a completely fresh start and I'm sure they will work well together."

She paid tribute to Mrs Harbour, whom she said had worked extremely hard to generate interest in filling the roles.

Other councillors, who can expect approval from Teesdale District Council when members meet on Wednesday, include Marion Hutchinson, Elaine Johnson, Jane Atkinson, Wendy Stafeckis, Alan Smailes and Liz O'Sullivan.