Lynn Gunnigle, Devon Socialist Party
Socialist Party members from across the South West convened in a packed-out venue to attend the South West regional conference in Bristol on Saturday 27 May. A discussion on perspectives for class struggle was introduced by Sarah Sachs-Eldridge, Socialist Party Executive Committee. This was followed by one great contribution after another by members of the various branches across the region.
It was great to hear what other branches had been doing and we celebrated the establishment of a new branch in Swindon. Hearing the passion from younger members and the thoughts and ideas from new members was inspiring.
After lunch the focus was on building support for the Socialist Party and our finances. With the cost of pretty much everything skyrocketing we must all explore opportunities to raise funds large or small where ever they arise. The fighting fund appeal reached more than £4,000 on the day, with commitments from comrades to continue to raise as much as possible going forward, including as part of the IT upgrade appeal. (see opposite page)
The whole conference passed far too quickly but I carried a warm and determined socialist feeling with me all the way home from sunny Bristol to sleepy South Hams. Where, even here in Conservative Dartmouth, the seeds of socialism may be fresh and few but we have strong roots growing. I look forward to watching them flourish here and across the South West.
