Councillor Groby Martin Cartwright has left the Conservative Party and joined the ruling Liberal Democrat group on Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council.

He is also a parish councillor and has been joined in his switch by fellow parish councillor Ted Hollick. Both will be standing for the Liberal Democrats in May’s elections, boosting the Liberal Democrat campaign to retain control of the council.

Cllr Cartwright said, “There comes a time when an ordinary working bloke has to stand up and be counted. I’ll be better placed to continue my fight to preserve and improve our village from within the ruling group on the council. I have come to the conclusion that I will be best able to serve the people of Groby by standing for the Liberal Democrats. I look forward to working with the Lib Dems for the benefit of all the residents of Groby”.

Lib Dem Council Leader Stuart Bray said, “Councillor Cartwright has proven talents, and a reputation of hard work for Groby and the Borough as a whole. My colleagues and I are delighted to welcome Martin to the Liberal Democrats. Martin Cartwright holds one of the best attendance records at HBBC across his term of office, and is a great team player demanding respect of friends and opponents alike.

“Councillor Ted Hollick has given twelve years service to Groby Parish Council and will bring much knowledge, insight and experience to the Borough Council, assisting our comprehension and understanding of how and what matters to the residents of Groby.

“Such high calibre and proven hard working Councillors for Groby will be an asset to our group.”