Eastbourne Tory council group leader takes steps back to focus on NHS job

Ratton ward councillor Tony Freebody confirmed today (Friday, April 3), that he is to temporarily step down from his political duties until at least the end of May, in an effort to focus on his work with the Sussex Partnership NHS Trust.

His role is to be taken on by the group’s deputy leader and Sovereign ward councillor Penny di Cara until his return.

Cllr Freebody said: “My main focus at the moment must be my day job in the NHS and to protect my vulnerable service users and deliver the best possible care in difficult times.

“As I’m sure many can imagine, right now is the most challenging times I have experienced in my career and I must make it my priority.

“Penny is a great deputy leader and is more than capable of leading the group in my absence. I leave the position in safe hands.”

Shortly before stepping down, Cllr Freebody issued a joint statement with Liberal Democrat council leader David Tutt committing his group to putting party politics aside until the end of the crisis.

In it, Cllr Freebody said: “Party politics is not important right now. We know that people from all political parties are working around the clock in an effort to help others.

“Our town is doing what it does best; helping the most vulnerable and looking out for each other. All councillors have really stepped-up and are working tirelessly to ensure that those that need help and support at this time receive it.

“The work going on behind the scenes is immense and both David and I would like to thank everyone for their amazing efforts.”

The sentiment was shared by Cllr Tutt, who said: “What’s needed right now is for all of us to pull together. We’ve got a much bigger fight on our hands with Coronavirus, which affects us all and we need to ensure that help and support goes to those that need it the most.

“I said after the last election that we work best when we work together and that’s just what we are doing.

“The monumental effort made by our healthcare colleagues, volunteers, Council staff and business leaders is helping to reduce the impact of Coronavirus in our town but it’s still a difficult time for many. That’s why Tony and I have come together to support everyone in Eastbourne.”

In taking on the role of Conservative group leader, Cllr di Cara confirmed she backed the commitment to party politics aside.

She also voiced support for Cllr Freebody’s decision to step down. She said: “I need to thank Tony for the amazing work he is doing in the NHS and everyone absolutely understands his priority must be to be there right now in this time of national crisis.”

Eastbourne and Willingdon MP Caroline Ansell added: “Tony has been dedicated to both his leader role and the NHS for many years but right now the NHS needs all his energy far more than we do.

“I wish him all the best and that he keeps safe in the vital job he is doing during this outbreak. I hope he is able to resume his political duties soon.”

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