The results of last Thursday's local council elections show that the Green Party is now a real force in local politics.

In Upper Norwood, where the party stood a full slate of candidates for the first time, the Greens polled 17 per cent of the vote.

The result is even more significant in light of the massive amounts of money expended by the major parties in their local campaigns.

The Green Party does not accept donations from mult inational companies and relies instead on active members and supporters who want to improve quality of life for all.

In London the party now has councillors in Lambeth, Southwark, Lewisham, Camden, Islington and Hackney.

The public is turning to the only real alternative to the spin and sleaze of the Westminster parties.

People do not want their local democracy turned into a theatre for cheque book politics'.

The people of Croydon are fed up with the idea that decisions are going to the highest bidder.

I would like to thank everyone who voted Green and reassure them that, for our party at least, democracy does not start and end at election time. We shall continue to work with local residents and campaign for action not meaningless party spin' on local issues. The election result has shown, both nationally and locally, that the Green Party is now a real force in local politics. In Croydon we're here for the long-term.

Our record speaks for itself wherever Green councillors are voted in, the public see the results and wants more. Principled and dedicated Green councillors across the country will be working to improve local neighbourhoods, enhance local shops and services, promote health and protect the wider environment. Next time, Croydon could also have Green councillors.

Bernice Golberg
Croydon Green Party
Carlyle Road
Addiscombe