Former Conservative councillor joins Peterborough Green Party

June Bull represented Orton Longueville ward for the Tories between May 2016 and June 2018 before she stood down due to the ill health of herself and husband Vernon.

But with the couple’s health having improved she is ready for a return to politics and has decided to do so with the Peterborough Green Party.

Mrs Bull said: “I have joined the Green Party because local Green voices have never been more vital.

“We are facing a climate emergency, made all the starker during this pandemic. I want to ensure that the voices of Peterborough’s residents are heard loud and clear by the city’s administration.

“I have a track record of serving communities having formerly been a city councillor, and my ongoing record as a parish councillor for Orton Longueville demonstrates my absolute commitment to my local community.”

Mrs Bull previously worked as a civil servant and EU Trade Delegate to the Association of South East Asian Nations.

She was also a founding member of the Peterborough Local History Society and has co-authored a number of local history publications.

When the basic allowance for councillors rose by £2,100 in April 2017 Mrs Bull gave the entirety of her increase to St John the Baptist church in Cathedral Square which she is an active member of.

The Peterborough Green Party currently have two city councillors who both represent Orton Waterville (Julie Howell and Nicola Day).

The party has yet to decide which candidates to stand in the local elections which are scheduled to take place in May, although there is speculation these will be delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Council Green group leader Cllr Howell said: “We are thrilled that June has chosen to join the Green Party. I served on Orton Longueville Parish Council with June for more than two years, and on Peterborough City Council in 2018, albeit on opposite sides of the chamber.

“I was very sad when June retired from her council seat in 2018 as I have always had the greatest respect for her, regardless of politics. I am so pleased that June and her husband are now in better health and over the moon that June has decided the Green Party is a better fit for her personal and political beliefs.

“We will benefit greatly from her experience and wisdom.

“This is the first time a former elected councillor from another political party has joined Peterborough Green Party. Our local party has come a very long way since our first Green councillor was elected in 2018.

“June is very welcome, as are other sitting or former councillors who may feel that the Green Party is a better match for their principles and personal beliefs.”