Many of you will know about the work I have done over the past 22 years as councillor for neighbouring Hurst.

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We fought and won many battles to protect and enhance that community and, if elected, I will bring the same passion and drive to the Thames Ward––where my family and I have lived for the past 15 years.

Having also served as executive member for planning on the borough council, I know my way around the corridors of power better than most and can bring a wealth of experience to Thames Ward to tackle the issues we all face.

Indeed, in my former role and as chairman of my residents’ association, I have worked closely with Remenham, Wargrave and Ruscombe Councillors John Halsall and Graham Howe to make our roads and footpaths safer, improve infrastructure, prevent flooding, clear up litter, protect our community from over-development, safeguard the Green Belt and more. My wife, Jennie is also hyper-vigilant across social media where many issues first come to light.

When John and Graham announced that they would be retiring in May, I decided to put my name forward to stand for election in my home ward with a pledge to fight tooth and nail for all residents. As one Hurst resident kindly put it when I stepped down in January: “For a Tory, you’re not half bad!”.

It’s about people, not politics.