EXCLUSIVE: Bury Conservatives elect new chairman as AGM reveals fresh leadership team

Friday, 27 June 2025 17:20

By David Murphy

Liam James Dean has been elected as the new chairman of the Bury North and South Conservative Federation, following the party's recent annual general meeting.

Liam James Dean, who was previously the Conservative Councillor for North Manor between 2021 and 2024, until he lost his seat, takes on the role as the new Chairman at what he described as a “vital time” for the party locally, as attention now turns to preparations for the 2026 local elections.

He replaces the previous chairman and expressed thanks to both outgoing officers and the candidates who stood for election.

The full leadership team announced at the AGM includes:

Deputy Chairman (Political): Councillor Shahbaz Arif
Deputy Chairman (Membership and Finance): Richard Moore
Treasurer: Joanne Daly
Secretary: Emma Lee
Volunteer Engagement: Ji-Hyun Park
Fundraising: Councillor Jackie Harris
Bury North Representative: Iona Worthington MBE
Bury South Representative: Azhar Mehboob
Digital Officer: Councillor Jack Rydeheard

Honorary positions include Stewart and Carolyn Sivvery as Presidents, and Vice Presidents David Nuttall, Keith Worthington, and James Daly MP.

Speaking exclusively to Roch Valley Radio, Mr Dean said:

It’s an honour to have been elected Chairman of Bury North and South Conservatives by a packed AGM last night.

We have a strong team across the whole Federation, and a renewed sense of purpose. Our focus is on building a winning campaign machine that supports our councillors, candidates, members and the people of our towns year-round - not just at election time. We’ll be raising the resources we need to take the fight to Labour - and other parties - to win back ground. The road ahead won’t be easy, but with discipline, energy, and local pride, I believe we can deliver real results.”

The Federation has launched a one-minute member survey to help guide event planning, communications and campaigning efforts for the year ahead. Among its stated priorities are boosting membership, strengthening the party’s local presence, and ramping up fundraising efforts to support campaign activity.

Members and supporters are encouraged to get involved, whether through campaign sessions, social events, or simply by staying informed.