Fresh faces aiming to change Valley politics
STEFAN JAJECZNYK
TWO fresh faced councillors are looking to bring a different perspective to Valley politics following local elections success.
Labour’s Joseph Stevens, 22, and Tory Denis Kostyan, 23, both tasted success at the ballot box on May 3.
Coun Kostyan’s Irwell ward seat in Bacup was the only one to change hands between the parties, unseating Labour’s Michelle Smith.
Born in Vladivostock in the far east of Russia, Coun Kostyan attended school in the UK from the age of nine and even- ●● New councillors Joseph Stevens (left) and Denis Kostyan tually moved to Manchester to study at university. He moved to the Valley in September last year.
Coun Kostyan said he and his partner Anna - a student - chose to move to Bacup as they felt it was an ‘up-and-coming’ place.
He says he hopes to bring a new approach to Valley politics and thinks his youth will help him achieve this.
He said: “I bring something new - a new take on things. I’m quite active and I’m going out and about, that youth aspect helps.
“Most young people were telling me there aren’t sufficient leisure activities in the area - there aren’t many things for them to do.
“I want to make council tax value for money. I want to use resources that the council has, for Bacup in particular.”
In Longholme ward, Labour’s new councillor Joseph Stevens became the youngest Rossendale councillor.
Coun Stevens held the seat for Labour following the retirement of Annie McMahon.
The student has been a Labour activist for three years, but was participating in his first election as a candidate.
He said: “I hope it will encourage more young people to get involved.
“In Longholme, we have the youngest ward team - we’re all under 30. It’s something I’m keen to encourage in the Valley.
“I’m really thrilled that the people of my community have chosen me to represent them.”
Coun Stevens, who lives on Haslingden Road, is no stranger to working in his community and vows to continue in his new role.
He said: “There are lots of great things happening in Rawtenstall - the amazing library, the wonderful work that Civic Pride does and numerous others.
“I want to use my position on the council to help strengthen the amazing community in Longholme.”
The Rossendale council elections left Labour still in control of the council with 20 seats, the Tories on 14, with one Community First member and one independent councillor.