"I have lived all my life in North Warwickshire with just brief periods away during my student days which I spent in Bristol and Stratford-upon-Avon.

Full statement

Although my enthusiasm for Shakespeare took me into an academic career I feel strongly that the priorities of education at every level should be to promote care and compassion, bridging gaps between generations.

I feel a particular affinity with Hartshill because that is where the Riding for the Disabled group of which I am a founder member runs sessions at weekends. I respect and admire the values and the honesty of an area in which I am proud to be bringing up my own children.

I believe passionately in a community which embraces people with a variety of talents and gives everybody a chance to lead purposeful and fulfilling lives."