Dear Friends and Neighbours, It's time for a positive change!!! In these uncertain times, many of us are feeling the weight of the world's extremes.

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But there is hope, and together, we can steer our community back to decent values. I have had the privilege of calling Moreton in Marsh my home for the past 15 years, alongside my wonderful wife, Sarah. This place is more than just a home to us; it is a community we deeply care about and believe in.

I’m not a career politician, I’m a senior manager (CMgr FCMI) within the energy industry helping large industrial customers to decarbonise. For the last 25 years, I’ve worked hard in various roles, but now, I feel a calling to serve as your County Councillor.

I've always tried to get stuck into community events and causes. I’m the Chair of the Moreton Flood Action Group which is working with multiple agencies to reduce the risk of flooding within Moreton and downstream.

The decline of services in our beautiful North Cotswolds has reached a point where action is necessary, and I’m determined to make a positive change to promote civic pride.

Roads
Imagine a community where our roads are well-maintained, where potholes are promptly and effectively fixed, and where our health services are robust and accessible. These are my priorities.

There is something fundamentally wrong with the road repair strategy the council currently operates. You only need to travel around the area to realise potholes are not being fixed effectively, let alone prevented.
I will use my years of problem solving, analytical and management experience to help devise a more robust and sustainable strategy to ensure ours and future generations benefit from safe roads.

Health Services
Recently, I was moved by the story of a lady whose partner, in the late stages of dementia, was forced to stay in Gloucester Royal Hospital, a nearly four-hour round trip by bus. This is not the dignity we wish for our loved ones in their final days, we need more local services.

Our NHS is amazing, but I will work towards improving the health services as this is what our community wants. Dementia care in the area needs to be improved to allow those affected to be treated locally.

The X-ray department at the North Cotswolds Hospital needs to revert back to a walk in service.

Community
I’m passionate about fostering a strong community spirit and increasing engagement among our residents. Too often, I’ve met individuals who feel isolated, some of whom haven’t spoken to anyone in a month. This is not right. I help run a Beaver group in Moreton with the aim of helping young children grow their confidence and skills within a safe and fun environment. Socialisation is key to our very well being,

Recent findings from a Lib Dem survey highlight a pressing need in our community: the desire for greater engagement and socialisation. Whether it's clubs for teenagers, retirees, individuals with disabilities, or our more vulnerable neighbours, we all cherish the opportunity to meet up and have a good natter.

The impact of isolation and boredom has intensified since the COVID-19 pandemic. It's time to act. I'm committed to creating clubs and social groups that are designed by and for the people they serve, ensuring they meet the needs and interests of our diverse community.

Road safety
A 20mph speed limit in Lower Swell and other villages is a win for everyone!
Frustratingly, the Conservative County Council vetoed the Lid Dem motion to allow villages a default 20 mph speed limit option, but I will push for this once elected.

• Safer Roads: Fewer and less severe accidents with a less than 10% risk of fatalities at 20mph.
• Quieter Streets: A more peaceful environment.
• Cleaner Air: Lower emissions for better air quality.
• Healthier Communities: Encourages walking and cycling.

Let’s work towards a brighter future for all parts of the Moreton, Stow and Rissingtons area. Your vote can make a difference because it will be a close result between the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats.

I would be honoured to have your support on 1st May.

Warm regards,

Craig Thurling

PS: Elections here are between Lib Dem and Conservative, many Labour and Green supporters are lending me their vote this time.

Published and promoted by M Evemy on behalf of Craig Thurling (Liberal Democrats) all at Priory Farm, Hazleton, GL54 4DX.