JANIS BLACKBURNE: Why no tributes from her Southport Labour colleagues?

Southport journalist Martin Hovden writes: It's been more than a week since Southport Councillor Janis Blackburne was suspended from the Labour Party for re-tweeting messages from former national leader Jeremy Corbyn.

As a result, she decided not to seek re-election to her Kew ward in next month's Sefton Council elections.

And the appalling, disgraceful Corbyn messages she agrees with? He wants to stop the proposed selling-off of Channel 4 and he's keen to see world peace.

This ruthless action against Councillor Blackburne by the national party shows how desperate leader Sir Keir Starmer is to distance himself from Corbyn.

This is the same Jeremy Corbyn who received a hero's welcome just a few years ago when he attracted more than 6,000 supporters to a rally on Southport beach, including members of Southport Labour Party, resort Labour parliamentary candidate Liz Savage, Merseyside Labour Metro Mayor Steve Rotherham and former deputy Labour leader John Prescot.

Until just a day before her suspension, Janis had the full backing of Southport Labour Party. Indeed, a few weeks ago they delivered a colourful, four-page election leaflet to the residents of Kew (myself included) highlighting her dedication and hard work in the ward.

Janis is a retired teacher. But rather than put her feet up, she selflessly decided to carry on her public service by becoming a Labour activist and eventually an elected councillor, a post she's held for the past four years.

Since her shock suspension, I've been waiting to see tributes from her former Labour colleagues in the town. Not a word. Complete silence.

My instinct tells me her colleagues are very saddened and appalled by what's happened to Janis. But they won't say anything in public, in case Starmer doesn't like it.

This is such a sad indictment of today's politics. Labour councillors and officials can't offer any pubic sympathy or support for a hardworking lady who just wants to help people.

Well, if they won't I will.

As one of your constituents, Janis, I want to thank you for the excellent work you have done in Kew. And I'm not alone. Here are some quotes from your official Labour leaflet:

“We are so grateful to Janis and Southport Labour Party for all their help and support throughout our entire campaign...” - Diane and Tracy of Kew Woods Playground in Ovington Drive

“The Youth and Community Partnership would like to commend Janis for her continuous support of both the centre and young people since she was elected. Janis goes out of her way to keep in touch and has helped us overcome difficulties...” - Patricia of Meols Cop Youth Centre

Janis Blackburne has come of this situation with dignity, respect and her head held high. Not so her Labour colleagues. Shame on you.

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