I’m standing in the County Council elections because I believe in the power of politics to change lives for the better - but we are being failed by the main parties at every level.

Full statement

Years of Conservative austerity have crippled our local councils - the roads and pavements are crumbling and we’re left paying more and receiving less. Labour are not only failing to address these past mistakes but are continuing to make them, while taking winter fuel allowance from our pensioners and leaving 100,000 children in poverty with the two-child benefit cap.

The communities across Carlton East are where I live. My kids go to school in Netherfield, I work throughout Colwick as a Councillor, we have an allotment at Stoke Lane and we enjoy the parks and countryside in Burton Joyce and Stoke Bardolph. I’ve already been involved in various projects in these communities - as founding Chair of the Netherfield Arts Festival, working to refurbish Jackie Bells Field, working to alleviate flood risks, delivering almost 100 new trees, removing tonnes of rubbish in Colwick and much more.

As an Independent Councillor representing Colwick I have been working hard for the community and with the community - tackling issues and campaigning for change. I don’t have to follow what I’m told to do by anyone in a political party - my only loyalty is to you.

I’m standing on my values of community, hard work, honesty and standing up for those in society without a voice. I hope that over the coming months I’ll be able to win your trust to vote for me on May 1.

I’m excited for this campaign and to be standing alongside others across the County who share these values and vision for a better society.