MY mother died in March 2020, just as the pandemic was announced. While a graveside committal was held, no funeral was possible.

A memorial service recently took place, to celebrate this great woman. No doubt many other families have been doing much the same of late.

Mum was held in great esteem by many. Why? Why are some people more highly regarded than others? The whole process set me thinking. I guess many of us think our mum is simply ‘the best’, and I understand that… but my mum simply was.

She personified decency, caring for all, putting others before herself. There was no ‘side’ to mum. It mattered not to her what your race or religion was, what your gender or orientation were, or where you came from, or what your educational or professional standing was… she simply loved all and her principled life was a testimony to that.

Mum was a devout Christian, but you don’t have to be a Christian to be a good person, doing good, caring for and respected in your community… but the teachings of Christ are not improved upon and are worthy of consideration by all.

Principles are important and democracy needs participants with principles. Mum’s only political act was to vote. She was not impressed by the behaviour witnessed in Parliament. I am sure she wouldn’t be too impressed by what too often passes for political debate in our council chambers either!

Consequently, many are put off engaging in the political process because of its increasingly negative and attritional nature.

‘Behaviour’ of some causes concern and certainly standards of civility and mutual respect have declined noticeably in my time as a councillor. Recently two independent members of the Teignbridge Council Standards Board resigned because of deteriorating behaviour by some members. Regrettably, it seems to me, some apparently believe national political behaviour should be replicated at local level, and our standards of national leadership can surely go no lower?

Those who know me well will know of my affection for ‘The West Wing’ a TV political drama based on the White House and a great Democrat President Jed Bartlett, played by Martin Sheen. Clearly it’s a work of fiction as the characters are all principled and Bartlett is a man of conscience. Oh that we had more of his ilk at local, national and international level right now!

All local councillors are given training and their attention is regularly drawn to the ‘Nolan’ principles, which are a set of guidelines to which elected members are supposed to adhere. The seven Nolan principles are Selflessness; Integrity; Objectivity; Accountability; Openness; Honesty; Leadership.

These principles are clearly seen in ‘The West Wing’, and mum could have been a character drawn from that most excellent programme, but she never engaged in the political process, though always voted, and I’m pretty certain I know who for!

Sadly of late the antics of a few, egged on by social media distortions of reality and truth, deter too many from standing for election and consequently the ill mannered and down right rude too often prevail.

Is this a challenge you can take on? This time next year we will have local elections here in Teignbridge. All political parties seek candidates. I would be happy to talk you through what is required.

While I may have painted an unattractive picture, let me assure you it is not all ‘doom and gloom’. Being asked for help and or advice and being in a position to give it, is hugely rewarding.

So, if you seek to make a positive and constructive contribution to your community… think on!