CAMPBELL A HARD ACT TO FOLLOW - BRUCE

8.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 25th Jun 2008

Alan Campbell will be a hard act to follow, according to Liberal Democrat MP Malcolm Bruce who first worked alongside him nearly forty years ago.

The Gordon MP said:

"Alan Campbell and I were colleagues when I worked for NESDA - the North East Scotland Development Authority - between 1971 and 1975 and he was in the County Clerk's department.

"Together we faced the challenge and excitement of the influx of oil and gas activity and the rapid changes to the north east's traditional industries and societies. Almost overnight we went from a declining region to a boom area and Aberdeen County Council played a key role in which Alan took no small part in.

"Our paths have crossed almost continuously since - especially during the past 25 years when I have represented large parts of Aberdeenshire in Parliament and, when Alan has been returning officer for elections.

"Alan has been a steady, calm and wise administrator over many years and at times when the North East has faced considerable challenges; he will be a hard act to follow.

"I wish him success and fulfilment in whatever new role he takes up and look forward to working with him in the future. "

ENDS