AS ONE year closes and another begins, many pause to reflect on recent achievements and look ahead to opportunities to come. For me, 2025 was a year of considerable personal change.
Frustrated with the direction of local and national politics, I chose to step forward to stand for election to Worcestershire County Council.
I remain deeply grateful to everyone who supported my campaign – whether delivering leaflets or placing trust in me at the ballot box, resulting in my election as the Reform UK councillor for Evesham South.
With the WAAFS on Tour at Wartime in the Vale. s
Since taking office, it’s been a pleasure meeting residents across a variety of settings. Whether through my regular ‘Meet Your Councillor’ sessions, conversations during walks around Evesham, care home visits, or direct phone and email contact, I have valued every interaction.
I do not use social media, so these personal contacts matter. With approaches about a broad range of community issues – support for local charities, concerns over trees, speeding and parking, I have been glad to help.
Among the many positives since the May elections, the Battle of Evesham Festival stands out. Record attendance provided opportunities to hear local views on topics including the condition of premises in Port Street, the future of the Riverside Shopping Centre, and longstanding concerns around the Hampton Foot and Cycle Bridge.
With Hereford & Worcester Army Cadets. s
While some matters involve other authorities and can be complex, I continue to keep all of them in focus.
However, there have been challenges. The county council’s financial pressures – rooted in national funding shortfalls and historical local spending decisions – have forced it to seek Exceptional Financial Support to set a balanced budget.
At a time when essential services such as adult social care, children’s services, and home-to-school transport face increasing demand, it’s vital to consider how major capital projects align with financial realities.
During the summer, I sought clarity regarding the use of the Evesham Hotel.
It would be lovely to have it returned for use by Evesham residents and visitors, however, my Freedom of Information request confirmed that current arrangements for accommodating so-called asylum seekers remain in place until January 2029.
In the autumn, I contacted the Police and Crime Commissioner to raise concerns about illegal workers being exploited by disreputable employers, not paying taxes and preventing local people from filling roles.
Since then, I’ve been encouraged that West Mercia Police have taken part in targeted operations to disrupt criminal activity – including inspections in Port Street and High Street, seizing significant volumes of illicit tobacco and illegal vapes, and arrests made for illegal employment during immigration raids in Briar Close.
Looking ahead to 2026, I remain committed to applying my experience in both the private sector and the NHS to serve with common sense, fastidiousness and dedication.
I look forward to continuing to represent Evesham South and wish everyone a very happy New Year.
Michele Hulme
Worcestershire County Council representative for Evesham South
