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 .
I congratulate anyone who volunteers in this way – without it local democracy would not function
However your reported comment about being relieved at no longer being accosted on the issues of the day in the pub etc is a bit strange – that’s what local democracy is – being LOCAL and accountable.
Of course if it goes beyond reasonable and/or becomes abusive that’s another thing.
But thanks for your service .
I think Si was being light hearted in his comment!
Speaking as one of the town’s publicans – for pubs have been mentioned here – I can say he has been incredibly supportive during his time as a councillor. Last year when a leak from public water mains in the upper Gungarden flooded the beer garden here, I contacted the relevant authorities – Southern Water and Rother DC – and got nowhere for 48 hours, as responsibility was disclaimed and water continued to flow. A whatsapp to Cllr McGurk got the issue resolved within hours as he made sure the issue was taken seriously.
He’s been a great representative for Rye and I hope whoever replaces him – from any party or none – is as accountable and responsive as he’s been to the needs and interests of residents and businesses in our town.
Thanks for your service Si.
Simon you were a strong “ Voice for the People” you will be missed.
Jane Conlin
Sorry to see you go
Si, but ever grateful for all you have done for Rye, and your always cheery presence. With every good wish for your new role. Look forward to seeing you around the town.
Over the last three years Si has worked closely with Tilling Green Residents Association, Tilling Green Events and other organisations I’m connected with and he has always been an energetic and reliable source of assistance both physical and political and he will be sorely missed. He has helped us with many achievements and will be remembered for this. On behalf of many in our community I wish him the very best in his new work. Thanks Si
Thank you Si for all your work on behalf of the people of Rye.
Yes indeeed thank you Si for your work on behalf on Actvie Travel – walkers, wheelers and cyclists – and for pushing ESCC to do something about the long-neglected Cadborough Cliff path.
Thank you Si for all your help with my disability campaign and also the Tilling Green sign. Your replacement has big shoes to fill. Good luck in your new job.
Thanks everyone for your comments, it’s been a huge privilege to be able to represent this wonderful community and to try and amplify all the amazing voluntary work and activism that happens here. My tongue in cheek comment was not meant seriously as Jeff says, I’m always up for a spot of putting the world to rights and that won’t end now. The support I’ve received from those commenting and right across Rye and Winchelsea is something I’ll never forget, whatever I’ve put in I’ve received back tenfold so again, thank you.
Si McGurk has been a really good District Councillor for Rye in that he doesn’t just talk or plan or call endlless meetings – he just gets on with things, and without the expectation of having his actions overly feted. I respect the way he has never seemed to blow his own trumpet, or expect to be recognised, fawned over or copiously praised for any acheivements. His hard work, enthusiasm and smiling face will be missed.