As the calendar turns its pages toward May 1st, 2025, I find myself once again lacing up my walking shoes and setting out across the familiar lanes, crescents, and cul-de-sacs of Upton, St Crispin, Pineham, Pineham Lock, Pineham Village, and Narrow Boat Lane. These aren’t just geographical names on a map — they are the living, breathing heart of our local community, and they have been my home for over two decades. As I walk and talk to friends, neighbours, and new faces alike in the run-up to the West Northamptonshire Council elections, I’m reminded just how deeply connected I am to this place and its people.
Campaigning on foot across these diverse and dynamic neighbourhoods is no walk in the park — especially during this unpredictable British spring — but every soaked shoe, wind-blown umbrella, and chilly doorstep conversation is a step closer to better understanding what matters most to the people I hope to continue representing.
A Blue Journey Rooted in History
Standing for re-election as your local Conservative Party candidate is not just a political mission for me — it’s a personal legacy. My connection to the Conservative Party spans over half a century, dating back to my earliest days in this country as a refugee in the 1970s. Back then, I was just a young man starting afresh in a foreign land, rebuilding a life shattered by conflict. It was the ethos of the Conservative Party — its belief in aspiration, self-reliance, personal responsibility, and a strong national identity — that spoke to me the loudest.
Through hardship, hard work, and hope, I came to see the Conservative Party not just as a political movement but as a philosophy rooted in community, tradition, and practical progress. Representing that “blue colour” on the ballot paper is more than a badge of political loyalty; it is a symbol of my gratitude, my journey, and my commitment to serve.
A Neighbourhood I Know and Love
When I was elected as a Councillor in 2021, it was one of the proudest moments of my life. To be entrusted by the people of Upton and its surrounding areas to represent them, not just in meetings and decisions but in the day-to-day matters that make a real difference, was a profound honour. I never took that responsibility lightly.
Over the last four years, I’ve thrown myself into local life in every possible way. Whether it’s rolling up my sleeves for a litter pick, planting trees under the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative, or helping organise the joyous celebration of the King’s Accession Party, I’ve made it a priority to be present, active, and deeply involved in every facet of community life.
I’ve worked closely with local voluntary organisations, helping them to secure funding and grow their impact. I’ve never missed a week volunteering at the Briar Hill Food Bank, where I’ve listened, supported, and stood by our residents when they needed it most. And perhaps most importantly, I’ve made myself available — whether it’s helping with housing issues, supporting vulnerable families, or offering a listening ear for any concern, large or small.
I do all this not because it’s part of a job description, but because it’s part of who I am. This community raised me, gave me a place to belong, and shaped the person I’ve become. My heart beats for Upton, Pineham, and every corner of this excellent ward.
Walking, Listening, Learning
These past few weeks of canvassing have been a humbling and energising experience. Each street I walk holds memories — and new conversations. From Upton’s bustling pavements to the tranquil lanes of Pineham Lock, from the vibrant community spirit of St Crispin to the scenic stretches of Narrow Boat Lane, I have walked them all with purpose.
Not every journey has been easy. The British weather is known to test even the most resilient of campaigners. But these ‘perilous walks,’ as I jokingly call them, have reminded me why I do this. Every doorstep I knock on brings a fresh perspective, a new story, a concern or a compliment, or simply a chat between neighbours.
People speak of potholes, parking, schools, and safety. Others worry about cost-of-living pressures or the lack of facilities for young people. Some want to be heard — and I’m here to listen.
That is what community representation is all about. Not just ticking boxes or writing reports — but being there, on the ground, every day, side by side with the people you serve.
Why I Am Standing Again
The decision to stand for re-election wasn’t taken lightly. It comes from a place of deep responsibility and commitment. I know that my job isn’t finished. There is more to do, more to build, and more progress to be made.
Our ward is growing, with new developments and new challenges. But I also see an opportunity to improve infrastructure, support education, enhance local services, and champion the values of respect, dignity, and unity that our community holds dear.
With your support, I aim to continue being your voice at West Northamptonshire Council. I want to keep helping our local organisations thrive. I want to continue mentoring our youth and advocating for our elders. I want to celebrate the diversity that makes our ward so vibrant while ensuring that no one is left behind.
A Future Built on Trust and Togetherness
As I look ahead to May 1st, I do so with hope and humility. My story is one of integration, aspiration, and gratitude — and this ward is the chapter where that story truly came alive.
To all residents, whether we have met already or are yet to speak, thank you for your kindness, candour, and trust. If you choose to give me the privilege of serving once again, I promise to work even harder, speak even louder on your behalf, and never take your support for granted.
So here’s to every perilous walk, every windy afternoon, every warm handshake at the door — and to the joy of once again flying the blue flag for a party that shaped my past and continues to inspire my future.
This is my home. This is our community. And together, we can continue to make it stronger.
I am also deeply honoured to be standing alongside my fellow Conservative candidate, Brian Sergeant — an octogenarian young man whose energy, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to public service inspire me every single day. Brian is not only a valued colleague but also a mentor from whom I continue to learn life’s greatest lessons. His kindness, humour, and steadfast dedication to our community make him the very epitome of resilience and civic spirit. His passion for serving people knows no bounds, and it’s a privilege to campaign beside someone whose heart beats so genuinely for the people of Upton Ward.
Vote Imran Chowdhury BEM & Brian Sergeant
Conservative Candidates for Upton Ward, West Northamptonshire Council
May 1st, 2025
