Grandad wants seat on council

Apr 9 2008 by Barry Gibson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

A GRANDFATHER of eight has been chosen to fight a council seat for Labour.

Chris Chapple will contest Holme Valley South in the Kirklees Council elections on May 1.

The Cinderhills man stood for the party at last year’s election, finishing second behind the Conservatives.

Mr Chapple, who has lived in the Holme Valley for 23 years, is concerned about the state of Holmfirth.

He said: “There are too many charity shops and empty shops. Tourism is essential for the local economy and there are too many unattractive sights for comfort.

“Graffiti and litter are also problems that need to be tackled vigorously. There is no reason why Holmfirth cannot be as attractive as Hebden Bridge.”

Three of Mr Chapple’s eight grandchildren attend local schools.

He said: “We have some of the best primary schools in Kirklees, and Holmfirth High School’s results are better than any other non-selective school in Kirklees.

“I am immensely proud of our schools but I’m not complacent – there’s still a lot to do.”