Hendon's Heroes

Today I've been out campaigning with volunteers from Hendon Labour Party and local MP Andrew Dismore. Andrew has been an MP since 1997 and involved in Labour politics for many years before that. He even met his wife on the 1983 campaign! The constituency office was buzzing with volunteers and activity. Fresh orders were being placed for campaign material on 'securing the recovery' which have been really popular. It was great to spend time with a seasoned campaigner and to see how he's introducing new volunteers to the art of campaigning. As Andrew said, the issues facing young volunteers have changed since he first started out, with many first time voters concerned about climate change in particular. But their worries about education, skills and jobs make the coming election hugely important for their futures. We hit the doorsteps in local area Meadfield. There was generally a welcoming response to Andrew and his team. All the volunteers were kitted out in bright red 'Dismore 4 Hendon' t-shirts - so they could see us coming! People really knew Andrew and his work for them locally.

Local council candidate John Johnston is a veteran campaigner - but says that going out canvassing keeps him young. All the Hendon team wanted to encourage more people to come out and join the campaign. As Andrew said, local constituency work goes on all year, not just for the weeks of an election, but its a time when everyone is focusing on a big national choice. I've come back from Hendon inspired by the energy of volunteers, who are out there getting out the message for May 6th.