The current leader of Walsall Council has described this election as the 'worst he has ever fought' as vote counting begins. Councillor Mike Bird will learn today whether he will retain his seat in the Pheasey Park Farm ward.
Character assassination claims
Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service at the all-out election count, where all 60 council seats are being decided, Councillor Bird said he had faced 'character assassination' during his campaign. He added that his daughter, Kara Babb, who is standing as a Conservative candidate in the neighbouring Streetly ward, had also been targeted.
'It's the worst election I've ever fought,' Councillor Bird said. 'It's been vindictive attacks on people, disgraceful attacks on people, to the fact that I reported on two or three occasions to the police. Now that's not democracy, that's character assassination.'
Potential leadership change
The results, expected from 5pm today, could see Councillor Bird lose his position as leader of the council. He expressed gratitude to the people of Walsall for their support over the years, saying, 'I'd just like to say thank you to the people of Walsall who have supported me over the years, but hopefully that won't happen.'
Reflecting on his tenure, Councillor Bird said he was proud to have been part of Walsall's regeneration, including the town centre, the ring road, and the New Art Gallery.
