The North West Leicestershire Conservative Association has announced the appointment of two new Deputy Chairmen and a new Communications Officer to its leadership team.

It says this strategic decision reflects the Association's commitment to expanding its reach and strengthening its presence within the community after a challenging few years.

And among their first tasks will be to help appoint a parliamentary candidate to fight next year's General Election.

A statement from the Association says: "The newly appointed Deputy Chairmen are highly respected local individuals with extensive experience in politics and community engagement.

"Their dedication and passion for serving the people of North West Leicestershire make them invaluable assets to the local Conservative group.

"Firstly, we welcome Keith Merrie MBE and county councillor, who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Association. With his extensive experience in public service, including his 22 years in the British Army and a as longstanding local councillor with a reputation of "getting stuff done", Keith is well-equipped to contribute to the Association's mission of promoting traditional Conservative values and policies within the local community. 

"Secondly, we are pleased to welcome county councillor Craig Smith, an accomplished local businessman who has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a deep commitment to public service since being elected as County Councillor for Coalville North 2 years ago. Craig's strong ties to the community make him an ideal addition to the Deputy Chairmanship."

It was a double celebration for Craig this week as he was also promoted to the Cabinet support member for Children's and Families and Regulatory Services at Leicestershire County Council.

The statement adds: "This recognition of Craig's dedication and capabilities in public service underscores his commitment to serving the community and his outstanding contributions as a councillor."

Keith Merrie MBE, Craig Smith and Kirat Sandhu have all been appointed to the Association's leadership team

In addition to the Deputy Chairmen, the association has also announced the appointment of Kirat Sandhu as the new Communications Officer.

Kirat, although a relative newcomer to local politics, brings a wealth of expertise in strategic communication, public relations, and media management. 

The Association says it is confident that the appointment of these three new officers will 'bolster its ability to address the diverse needs of the local constituency'.

Chairman Leon Spence expressed his gratitude on behalf of the entire Association for the outgoing Deputy Chairmen Mark Evans and Robert Ashman, acknowledging their significant contributions over many years service.

He said "We are incredibly grateful for the hard work and dedication both Mark and Robert throughout their tenure.

"Their commitment to the association and the local community has been unwavering, and their efforts have played a key role in the success of the association.

"I thank them for their outstanding contributions and wish them every success.

Mr Spence also made clear his excitement for the new appointments.

He added: "I'm delighted to welcome Keith and Craig as our Association's two new Deputy Chairmen, both have big shoes to fill but I am certain they will serve the association with dignity and diligence just as they serve their respective electorates as councillors so positively."

The North West Leicestershire Conservative Association says its newly appointed team will be focused on several key priorities, including the selection of a new prospective parliamentary candidate for North West Leicestershire ahead of next year's general election.

The Association is dedicated to identifying an exceptional candidate who will represent the constituency's interests and values at the national level.