LAST Thursday Wyre Forest residents voted by 63%/37% to Leave the EU. Nationally the margin of victory was small but has brought widespread divisions in our country between families, friends and work colleagues and communities.

We understand there are flaws in the EU, but like the 48% of the population we believe our country is best served within the EU. As Liberal Democrats we are obviously disappointed but as democrats we respect the result and will continue to serve all our electorates no matter how they voted.

A lot of those who voted Leave did so on the premise there would be a reduction in immigration and £350 million a week would be invested in the NHS, but as soon as the result was known it was clear we had been misled.

There was also a sense the country would be out immediately and we have been told that that is not necessarily the case. The government will move further to the right which will have an adverse effect on many who voted Leave, both socially and economically, and it is our view that the Liberal Democrats are best placed to bring equilibrium to our country.

With the Tory Party facing a potentially bruising leadership election and the Labour Party in disarray only the Lib Dems are a united party.

At a time when strong leadership and strong opposition is needed to get the best deal for the country we are seeing the self interest of MPs take over national interest.

Since the referendum over 4,000 people have joined the Lib Dems, and in a matter of a few days we have seen 15 new members join the local party. We would urge those of the 37% and those who have been let down because the promises made during the campaign are not going to be fulfilled and those who believe in progressive politics to join us.

Mrs Fran Oborski MBE, Treasurer and Membership Development Officer Wyre Forest Branch, North Worcester Liberal Democrats Mr Shazu Miah, Vice Chairman of Wyre Forest Branch, North Worcestershire Liberal Democrats