A Happy, albeit reflective Birthday.

Today, my birthday, was a day of mixed emotions. Starting early, I met my two political opponents for an interview on Radio 5 Live. Having an opportunity to speak on a national radio station during their early prime time slot, really was a pleasure. I had the chance to convey my thanks to the people of our city for the growing support we are finding across Derby North.

I was disappointed by the negativity demonstrated by both the Labour, and the Liberal Democrat candidates. It seems the two of them have already decided who is going to win in Derby North at the next General Election, and apparently, they both are. Which should make for an interesting polling day. As I've said before, polls count for little in my opinion. The people of Derby will decide who is most capable of representing our city and that's the only poll that matters.

As enjoyable as it was however, my thoughts today have been with the people of Haiti. The scale of the devastation there grows more traumatic by the day. Death tolls rise and latest media reports tell stories of people singing into the night, consoling each other whilst trying to make sense of something incomprehensible. As I sit down tonight, so incredibly fortunate in my home, with my family, I think not only of the victims of this tragedy, but the rescue teams from across the world who are proving once again that human compassion really is limitless.

A New Year Message

The year of 2009 is now behind us and together, we’re looking forward with optimism to the prospect of a positive change for Derby and for Britain in 2010. We have heard at great length throughout the last twelve months of the difficulties we face as a society. Whilst acknowledging that we will inevitably face challenges in the coming months, this will be the year when we all decide which path to set down for future generations.

To this end, 2010 will also be the year when I put myself forward as a candidate to be your next MP. The honour I feel at having such an opportunity is surpassed only by the enormity of the challenges before us, challenges which I am both ready and prepared for.

With the reputation of politics and politicians lower than at any point in living memory, my role will be to help restore faith in the abilities and integrity of our elected officials. As the only Derby North candidate at the next election whose income is not provided for by your taxes, I really do appreciate the anger and frustration people feel at the way in which some MP’s have abused our trust. This abuse must be consigned to the history books and never be allowed to happen again.

Having worked hard this year, I am now spending time with my wife and two boys this Christmas. At such a time, I am reminded of those in our society who face the prospect of another year alone. I wish I could pass on the good fortune I have to all those who need it, but aware of the fact that I can’t, I wish only to work as hard as I can to ensure that such opportunities are there for any person prepared to work for them.

So as we move forward into 2010, I say let this be the year that we reaffirm the importance that family plays in all of our lives. Let this be the year that we protect the institutions and traditions which helped to make our nation great. Let this be the year when we look forward to the future, with open minds and focused determination, to ensure that all people are included in the Britain we look forward to creating. Let this be a new year capable of offering promise to all.

For now, can I wish you all a very Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Stephen Mold