Allan has been rather coy in answering questions about whether he is running again but today phoned local media and said “I am running”.

Allan Patton, orchardist, has been the rural director (Area C) for 6 years and will face any contender.

Patton says he is not aware of anyone wanting to challenge him but looks forward to a healthy debate on rural issues if that should happen.

Patton says some of his hesitancy was caused by his thoughts for his wife but says in the last couple of weeks she has been telling people “he was running” so he can continue the work he seems to love next to picking apples – something he was doing late today when ODN got the call.