Hello.

Full statement

Several factors have prompted me to throw my hat in the ring of local politics. Here's just three (besides ensuring there's at least one good alternative to voting Reform!): 
1/ I have broad confidence in the LibDems' policies and vision. 2/ Environment and the green-transition is a major concern - and I know that these can translate into various local initiatives (the LD's have been out-performing the Greens in this). 3/ On the social front I'm increasingly concerned about how easily teens and young adults can drift into 'using' (drugs), and how certain circumstances, left unchecked, can leave many without a social safety-net or a chance to 'course-correct'.

As a New Zealander with UK residency my last 18 years have been spent - with family - living in Stroud, Glos. I'm now retired but meanwhile offering some digital media services and community-volunteering work. Increasingly interested in politics (big-picture and local) I have latterly agreed to this candidacy for the by-election (attached to the county-wide May 1st elections).

Your vote (i.e. if voting in StroudCentral ward) can help make a difference. Please bear in mind that the decision to be a candidate was too late to do any campaigning but I'm pleased that there will be a LibDem option on SDC local election list.