Former Mayor of Stratford upon Avon (2021-22), and former Town Councillor (2019-2023), Kevin has lived in the constituency since 2005 having fallen in love with the town after many visits.

Full statement

But seeing the changes, decline and growing dissatisfaction in businesses and residents in the area over the 19 years, prompted him into action.

Despite a very successful and popular Mayoral year, he was frustrated and disillusioned by being constrained within a political party. The unhelpful tribalism between the main parties in the area affects decisions and he thinks has a detrimental effect. So he stepped down at the last local elections.

There is public apathy and disillusionment. Like so many, he has lost faith and trust in the political parties, not really feeling aligned with any of them. Realising most of the issues people have are not party political, his focus as MP would be to use his influence to benefit the whole constituency.

Kevin is a very positive, proactive, honest and approachable person who will continue to be present in the area. Being an Independent will allow him to work with whoever is best placed to help the constituency without political constraints.