Interview – Cllr John Harding

How much do we really know about our councillors? We may have spoken to them when we have an issue but apart from that we don’t really know the person behind the public image. I asked the local Labour councillors for a sit down chat to dig little deeper into what makes our councillors tick…

This week, I’ve sat down with Cllr John Harding to find out a little more information than just what we read in the paper or newsletters… here is how our little Q & A session went? – Keep an eye out for my cheeky notes 🙂

Name:

John Harding

Occupation:

Currently, i’m happily retired having completed 33 years service with Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service. I started as a fire fighter in 1976 and retired at the end of 2009 having served the last 5 years of my career as Wigan Borough Commander with responsibility for the 4 stations in Wigan over 200 operational personnel and fire safety enforcement, community fire safety and non-uniformed support staff. After my retirement I set up my own company as a Fire Consultant where I worked with companies in Ireland and all over the UK. Having done this for 5 years, I decided to have a change in direction and, having had an interest in local politics and in continuing to work for the benefit of the local community. I decided to stand as a local Labour councillor and was proudly elected for Atherleigh ward in 2016. – Well I know who to phone when the BBQ gets out of hand!!!

Favourite Quote:

‘Carpe Diem – Seize The Day’ – Splashing out the Latin ehh 🙂

Achievements:

Awarded the Order of St. John by HM The Queen for contribution to the development of pre-hospital trauma care, which is now delivered by fire fighters at every incident involving casualties.

Qualifications:

Post Grad Diploma in Management Studies, Graduate of the Institution of Fire Engineers and Graduate of City & Guilds Institution from Coventry university in Fire Service Management.

Hobbies & Interests –

Riding my Harley Davidson & Fly Fishing – Now hope he doesn’t do those at the same time 🙂

Volunteer Work –

Leigh & District Marie Curie Fundraising Group, Atherton Environmental Projects & Bridger’s Community group

Council Committees –

Confident Council

Planning

Housing Advisory Panel

 

Cllr Harding was a delight.. You’ve got my vote 🙂

www.gov.uk/register-to-vote