A long-serving Westhoughton councillor is still optimistic despite losing his seat at this year's dramatic Bolton Council elections.
Cllr David Wilkinson, a Liberal Democrat who until recently represented Westhoughton South on Bolton Council, first began his political career in 1984.
However, he will still continue to represent Westhoughton residents in his capacity as a town councillor.
Cllr Wilkinson has been on the council for many years - representing the same place in which he lives.
He was one of the most senior members on the council, though still behind John Walsh of Astley Bridge, who also lost his seat.
"It's very disappointing," said Cllr Wilkinson, "but that is the political system.
"I expected something similar to last year, but a lot of people are disgruntled, and there is this backlash towards some of the things the policies of the previous Tory government, and some real mistakes from the Labour government, which have given other parties an opportunity to launch their campaigns.
"Of course, I wish everybody well who won, because they have a great responsibility to look after their wards and the borough.
"It is a privilege, and one of the best things people can have the opportunity to do.
"I would just like to say a big thank you to all the councillors who I've worked with - we may have had disagreements, but everybody wanted to do what is best for their communities."
Cllr Wilkinson reflected on the role after many years as a Bolton councillor.
"People don't know how much effort goes into being a councillor - it is in many ways a full time jobs, seven days a week.
"You lose an election and you feel a bit down, but worse things have happened at sea, as they say.
"I've been on and off the council since I started in 1984 - it's just part of the democratic process.
"A lot of people are jumping and shouting and celebrating this morning because they won last night, but in four years time they might be having a similar conversation to this one.
"But I am exceedingly proud of our country and the people who live here."
Cllr Wilkinson said he would still be around fighting for local residents in his capacity as town councillor for Westhoughton.
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