Simon McGurk has resigned as one of Rother District Councillors who represents Rye and Winchelsea. Voters in both towns go to the polls to find his replacement on Thursday 7 May.
He made the announcement on Monday 16 March, explaining how a new job prevents him from having a formal political role. The resignation means leaving the council a year earlier than the original four-year term.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me as a district councillor,” he said. “Both personally and professionally so many local people have helped. Whether that’s handing out leaflets, helping with our anti-social behaviour meetings, or just making tea or putting out chairs at our events, I’m very grateful.”
He said he was proud of what has been achieved since he was elected as a Labour councillor in 2023. “Making Rye more accessible has been a highlight, including working on the dropped kerb campaign with Dan Lake. The engagement in trying to improve the levels of anti-social behaviour in the town, with the support and guidance of our MP Helena Dollimore, is another. I’ve also enjoyed being part of the teams that worked together in a non-political way on issues like the cycle paths or helping Rye Saleability. The seemingly small wins that make a big difference.”
The former councillor said he decided to stand for election three years ago to help solve local issues. “It was about the time there were rumours about refugees or asylum seekers being housed at Pontins in Camber. Of course that never happened, but I thought it needed motivated people to find a solution so I threw my hat into the ring. As a district councillor you’re part of a team of people trying to do their best for their community, something that I’ve tried to be part of too.”
Hastings and Rye MP Helena Dollimore said, “I would like to thank Simon for all his hard work standing up for Rye and Winchelsea for the past three years. He has done an excellent job working with me to fight for our corner of Rother and East Sussex, and his legacy will live on from the extra dropped kerbs to Rye Salts.”
The new job with a local authority will mean a different sort of work-pressure he said. “It will be hard work but I’m looking forward to getting my life back. It’ll make a big difference to be able to go into a pub in Rye or Winchelsea and not be accosted about the issues of the day!”
The by-election for the councillor vacancy is expected to take place on Thursday 7 May, the same day voters go to the polls to elect East Sussex County Councillors.
Image Credits: Simon McGurk , Kt Bruce .