Former Essex MP Jeff Watson heading west

Jeff Watson hands out poppies in his hometown of Amherstburg, Ont. (Oct. 31, 2016)

The former MP for Essex is on the move.

Jeff Watson and family are moving to Calgary later this month.

Watson served as a Conservative MP in the Essex riding for 11 years, until he was defeated in the 2015 federal election. He was the first Conservative elected locally since 1958.

While handing out poppies today, Watson said moving out west is not for political purposes – it’s about family, and adventure. He says he looks forward to spending quality time with them, “as we head west and create new memories.”

“Whether they like me or not, the public means a lot to me,” Watson told CTV News today.  “We’re leaving with lots of good memories. It’s been an honour to serve and I’m not going to forget any of it.”