Sefton Democracy Club holds successful second meeting

Sefton Democracy Club held its second meeting last week with special guests including leading politicians, a local historian and chair of Altside Business Village.

It was only the second meeting of the club which was formed to give residents of Sefton the chance to discuss the big issues that affect them.

Last Thursday's meeting was held with a Question Time style format with guest panelists Sefton Labour Group leader Cllr Peter Dowd, Sefton Conservative Group leader Cllr Paula Parry, historian and author Mike Kelly and Maghull businessman and Altside Business Village chairman Les French.


Sefton Central Liberal Democrat spokesman Richard Clein was invited but failed to attend.

Sefton Democracy Club co-founder Patrick McKinley said: "We had a fantastic turnout to what was only the second meeting.

"More than 40 people turned up to join the debate and to quiz the panelists, which made for a really interesting evening.

"It really is fascinating to hear what opinions people have and how these opinions inform debate.

"Taking parting in the debates we had people of all political persuasions, covering the full spectrum of opinions."

Issues discussed on Thursday night included social housing, immigration and the economy.

Plans are already being drawn up for the next meeting.

Patrick said: "Member of the club have decided that law and order is the main issue which they want to focus on next time around. So we are inviting people who will be able to inform the club. We are hoping to have join us next time a judge, a leading police officer and a criminolgist.

"So we are looking at another interesting night."

Patrick added: "I would like to thank Paula Parry, Peter Dowd, Les French and Mike Kelly for taking time out of their very coming along and taking questions from club member and joining the debate."