Hucknall's newly elected Ashfield Independent Councillor has used his maiden speech to vow to strive to put the town first.

Nick Parvin, who won the Hucknall Central by-election that was held on Wednesday 23 November, attended his first Ashfield District Council meeting last Thursday (1 December). He claimed a comfortable victory two weeks ago, amassing just over 54% of the vote, in an election called for by residents following the sad passing of Councillor Jim Blagden at the end of July.

Councillor Parvin thanked the residents of Hucknall and paid tribute to his predecessor. Speaking at the meeting, he said: "I would firstly like to thank Jim for a lifetime of work for our town. He will be tough act to follow, but I am determined to do my best for the people of Hucknall. I would like to thank residents for putting their faith in me – I will work every day to make Hucknall – a town I am proud to call my home – a better place."

Welcoming Councillor Parvin, Councillor Lee Waters, who represents Hucknall North, said to the Council: "I am pleased to welcome Nick to Ashfield District Council. We fought a hugely positive campaign and the fact that our vote went up significantly shows that positively won the day. Jim was my mentor and taught me the ropes. He was a brilliant man and is sorely missed. I will now mentor Nick. He will be an excellent champion for Hucknall."