news story

22nd January 2010

Paddy Ashdown to Speak at Thornbury Public Meeting

'Flashback' to 1996 with a very young looking Steve Webb and Paddy Ashdown at the time of Paddy's last visit!

Former Lib Dem leader and international statesman Paddy Ashdown will be speaking at a public meeting in Thornbury next month. The event, which has been organised by local MP Steve Webb, will take place at Thornbury Leisure Centre on Thursday February 4th at 8pm and will give constituents the chance to hear from one of the twentieth century's most colourful politicians about his life and career.

Paddy Ashdown is well known for his 11 years as party leader, but also for his four years running Bosnia on behalf of the United Nations. He is also well known for having served in the special forces and being fluent in Mandarin Chinese. He was knighted in 2000 and was made a peer in 2001.

Paddy Ashdown's last visit to the area for a public meeting was in 1996 when he came to Yate to support Steve Webb who was standing for the first time as candidate for the Northavon seat.

Steve Webb said:

"I'm delighted to have Paddy visiting the area again. I remember the 1996 event well. It was an overwhelming success and I'm sure we will see a repeat of that this time round.

"Few politicians can claim to have had the rich and varied political experiences that Paddy has - his work has given him vast knowledge of international politics and strategic issues and he continues to inspire and entertain his audiences.

"I'm sure that his talk, together with chance to ask questions, will appeal to supporters of all parties and none".

The event is open to all and free tickets can be obtained by e-mailing Steve Webb on steve@stevewebb.org.uk or by calling 01454 322 100.