LAST night's open primary gave a fascinating insight into what people want from their candidates.
Certainly, those in Ormskirk Civic Hall weren't there just to put bums on seats, they were quite adept at asking searching questions of the final four. Put it this way, if you think journalists are cynical in their line of questioning, you should go to an open primary.
Even though it was billed as open to everyone, even I was a bit surprised when I spotted Labour councillors Alan Bullen (Skem North) and Steve Hanlon (Moorside) taking their seats, albeit with a hint of mischief in their eyes.
Cllr Bullen, tongue firmly planted inside his cheek and ever the joker, told us that he'd "seen the light" adding that he'd decided to wear a suit for the occasion just to look like a Tory.
When association chairman Rob Bailey got onto the stage he greeted everyone and then made reference to Labour blood in the room by quipping: "We'll be doing conversions afterwards" to which Cllr Bullen replied, to much amusement from the gathering: "So will we!"
As it turned out, both Messrs Bullen and Hanlon had some interesting questions with the latter asking each candidate what private members bill they would table if they had the chance (the reply which got the biggest laugh and even applause was Alf Doran's bid to ban chewing gum).
Cllr Bullen saved his grand inquisition for Adrian Owens, the final candidate and overall winner, who was asked about the woman's right to choose whether she has an abortion.
Alan had clearly done his homework on this as Adrian is an arch pro-lifer.
As soon as Adrian heard each of them were about to ask a question, a massive smile swept across his face as they're old sparring partners in the council chamber week in, week out.
They may attack each other politically, but personally there's great cameraderie between many councillors on both sides.
On the whole, I think Adrian Owens was a worthy winner - confident, articulate and polished. He was a man who looked most at ease and had the air of a professional politician - someone who could definitely give the Tories a fighting chance at the next election.
As for my views on the other candidates, don't miss this week's Advertiser where I'll be doing an indepth report of the night, warts and all.
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