Councillor Profiles: Cllr Bert Jones
We’re asking our local councillor team to tell us about about themselves. It’s now the turn of Cllr Bert Jones
1. Name: Bert Jones
2. Ward you represent: Chadwell
3. When you were elected: First elected to Chadwell in 2018
4. Biggest achievement/ result as a councillor so far: The most rewarding thing I find about being a Cllr is the casework. People come to us when things go wrong and they have nowhere else to turn. When I successfully help one person it means so much they will remember you for years to come.
5. The most important thing you would like to change in your ward: Chadwell as a neighbourhood is split across 3 local authorities, Redbridge, Barking and Dagenham and Havering. It would be good if there was more co-operation between these 3 boroughs to give it a better sense if identity as people feel they are on the periphery.
6. Favourite location in your ward: The High Road is where most of the action is, some good cafes, restaurants and shops available to all communities.
7. Favourite TV Show: My favourite TV show is "His Dark Materials" shown on the BBC, its based on fantasy novels by Phillip Pullman. Its a much improved version of the 2007 film. The story is aimed at children but the plot is dark enough for adult audiences. As a political junkie this series keeps me entertained as its mostly set in a parallel universe where the country is run by a sinister and authoritarian organisation called the "Magesterium", serves as a reminder as what could happen if we take democracy for granted.
8. Book recommendations: My favourite book is "Wild Swans" released in the early 90's. Its written by Jung Chang. I read this book whilst I was a student in China. I took a copy with me from the UK as its currently banned in mainland China. This book presents the story of three generations in the life of the authors family, which covers almost the entire 20th century. It gives an amazing insight into the social, political and economic changes happening in China. We move from the portrait of a concubine with bound feet, to a woman who worked alongside her Communist Party husband to bring party ideals to fruition, then onto the granddaughter who is amongst the first in her generation to leave the country to study. Its one of the most fascinating books I have ever read as it gives an honest account into how the country has changed, and it will become an important global player for generations to come.
9. Favourite type of food: Given my Mexican Heritage I like my food to be spicy! Coincidentally, Mexican and South Asian cuisine has a taste for chillies!
10. Ideal holiday destinations once lockdown is over: Given international travel may be troublesome for months to come, I recommend discovering beautiful parts of our country right on our doorstep! The Norfolk Broads has plenty to offer to get away from it all, plus lots of action for anglers and birdwatchers.
