The British National Party in Copeland rewarded its hard-working activists with a series of awards at its latest meeting in the town, reports North West regional organiser Clive Jefferson.

“The first Copeland BNP meeting since the elections was a very relaxed and positive event,” said Mr Jefferson. “We are an especially close-knit group. We are a band of friends as well as political colleagues and that is one of the factors which contributed to Copeland being the most improved BNP percentage vote since the last European elections,” he said, adding that the BNP turnout had increased from 4.7 percent in 2005 to over 12 percent this year.

“We fielded a full slate of twelve candidates in the county elections, up from none in 2005,” Mr Jefferson continued. “We polled 16.5 of the vote, coming a strong third place in overall votes cast. We also took three good second places with the best vote being 30.2 percent.”

Local activists Bill Pugh, Kevin Hurst and Malcolm Southward all received awards for their commitment and work during the election. Brian Callow, 70 years young, won the activist of the year award, leaving everyone behind day after day during the now legendary 14 hour days in the last two weeks of the campaign.

Pin badges were also awarded to all candidates and other awards were given for internet activism and leafleting of remote areas.

Martin Wingfield, newly appointed NW Elections Officer and campaigns and communications manager for the two BNP MEPs, was guest speaker. Over £100 was raised which will be used in the printing of ‘thank you’ leaflets for the good people of Copeland.

“With the appointment of a new secretary and treasurer and a mass of new members and enquiries, the team is highly motivated and raring to go,” Mr Jefferson said. “Copeland looks set to fulfil its potential and become the jewel in the North West’s crown.”