THE Conservative party's loss has turned out to be the Richmond constituency's gain. Mr William Hague has revealed this week that he intends to stand again at the next election, banishing any thoughts that some may have had that he might turn his back on politics. He has clearly not been short of offers but his statement of loyalty to the area, and to the local Conservatives who have supported him through thick and thin over the last four years, is unequivocal.

Conservatives, Labourites and Liberal Democrats alike should be grateful. Whether Mr Hague's political views are to everybody's taste or not, his qualities as a constituency MP will be appreciated, and used, more extensively now he can devote more of his time to North Yorkshire.

Whilst clearly a disappointed man, he is not dwelling on the defeat of June 7. He feels he has learnt from the election defeat and the years as leader of his party. He is a stronger and more experienced politician as a result and wants to put the experience he has gained at the disposal of his constituents.

There are plenty of issues to tackle, from the continuing shake-up in the local health service structure and management to the struggles of the constituency's market towns. Even the hated pylons project will come under his fresh gaze and although he says there is little that can be done realistically to halt their eventual construction, it's clearly a matter that he thinks is worth pursuing.

His primary objective in the coming months, however, is the aftermath of the on-going foot-and-mouth crisis. He wants to be a champion of the rural community in general and freed of party responsibilities there is no doubt he can make a telling contribution to the debate about the future of the farming industry and the countryside economy in general.

His knowledge in, and of, this area is already comprehensive but obviously he feels the need to know more. He wants to spend more time talking to his constituents in an informal way, something that has been virtually impossible for him during his time as party leader. He wants to develop the insight and feel for issues that can only be gained from that sort of one-to-one contact with folk who have not necessarily sought him out because they have an axe to grind.

Mr Hague's role as a prominent national politician is not over by a long chalk but his commitment to his political home base is wholly sincere. Richmond constituency can look forward to having a vigorous MP prepared and able to fight for it.

While many local Conservatives may long regret that "their William" did not lead his party back to power, his constituents will benefit from his failed attempt - a silver lining they will come to appreciate.