Andy Kelly makes final pitch for votes
Liberal Democrat candidate Councillor Andy Kelly has made a final pitch for votes ahead of tomorrow's General Election. He has thanked residents for their 'warm' reception on the doorstep and promised 'change' if he is elected tomorrow. Andy reiterated the fact he believes that only he can beat the Labour.
"Over the past few weeks we have been setting out our plans for the people of Rochdale. A positive vision to end years of Labour neglect and bad headlines.
"People know this is the most important election in Rochdale and The Pennines for a generation. We have a chance to change Rochdale for the better. As the Liberal Democrat candidate, can I thank the thousands of residents I've spoken to for their warm reception on the doorstep.
"Everyone knows that on Thursday, the people of Rochdale, you my neighbours face a clear choice. It's either the Liberal Democrats or no change with Labour. No other result is possible no matter what the others say. The Conservatives haven't won on General Election day in Rochdale since 1951. If Labour wins on Thursday nothing will change. Everyone knows that.
"Unlike others, I have gone on record stating that I will never stand anywhere else for Parliament. I was born in Rochdale, got married in Rochdale, raised my children in Rochdale and just like a stick of Blackpool Rock, Rochdale runs through me. That's why I got involved in politics. I want to give back to the town that has done so much for me.
"If elected, I will continue to fight against building on our precious green belt. I will fight for more police and end the scandal that over 100,000 crimes were not investigated last year by Tony Lloyd's, Labour-led Greater Manchester Police. I will continue to work to improve public transport and spearhead an arts-based revival of Rochdale Town Centre.
"I was proud that only the Liberal Democrats were the only political party to refuse a 34% councillor's pay rise. In all my time in politics, I have never seen such anger from the public. Labour and the Conservatives voted for a pay rise. Why? They thought they'd get away with it as there was no elections this year. They were wrong.
"I will be an MP you can be proud of. An MP who will be a strong voice after years of Labour neglect, bad headlines and embarrassment. If you want change - only I can deliver it. Let make Thursday a fresh start for Rochdale."
Polls are open from 7am till 10pm tomorrow.