Romsey and Southampton North Conservatives held their annual summer BBQ on Sunday 1st September at the Ampfield home of Mr Simon Watson, with a speech by a special guest.
The well-attended event had members from across the constituency, from Bassett to the newly-added parishes near Andover.
Joe Dwyer, the Political Deputy Chairman of the Association, welcomed local MP Caroline Nokes, Hampshire County Council leader Nick Adams-King, and Conservative party leadership candidate Mel Stride.
Mr Stride gave a speech to the members as part of a nationwide tour, before MPs whittle the candidates down to the final four next week. He congratulated Caroline Nokes in holding her Romsey seat at the general election.
The members then had an opportunity to grill Mr Stride on his vision for the future of the Conservative party. Questions covered such diverse issues as illegal immigration and pot holes.
Members also had the opportunity to congratulate Caroline Nokes on her election to position of Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons earlier this summer.
Caroline Nokes thanked Simon Watson for hosting the event and explained that as one of the Deputy Speakers she would remain strictly neutral in the election of the new Leader.
Mr Dwyer said the local Association was in good health and had been buoyed by Caroline’s success at the general election, which he said was in large part a tribute to her dedication as a conscientious and hard-working local representative.
