I READ with interest your feature on politician’s views of 2017. There was one glaring omission.
The Liberal Democrats, who have promoted a pro-European and internationalist message of co-operation since the 1960s, have also experienced a surge in local membership. Unlike Labour’s new members, ours are motivated and engaged. 
We also have a clear message on Brexit as well as the many other challenges our country and communities face.
We look forward to promoting the case for an open, tolerant and united Britain in the forthcoming elections, especially as we gained 26 seats across the country in local government by-elections since May 2016, including two here in 
Wiltshire. No other party came close.
HELEN BELCHER
Liberal Democrat prospective 
parliamentary candidate
Chippenham