My name is David and I live with my wife Nicola in Braunton, where we moved from Bristol in 2010.

Full statement

My ‘first’ career was in the Armed Forces, when I served on operations in Northern Ireland, Bosnia and twice each in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as working for the Ministry of Defence. I have subsequently worked in the environmental sector for the Carbon Trust helping UK and other governments support the development of low carbon energy technology. I joined the NHS in 2012, working for a large hospital Trust before being asked to be Director of Bristol Health Partners, which brought together them NHS, local government, universities and a whole range of community groups to work together to improve health and reduce health inequalities in Bristol.

In 2016, I was awarded an honorary degree by the University of the West of England for my work in the health sector in Bristol. I am also the Chair of Trustees of Avon Wildlife Trust, a role I am stepping down from in November to be able to do more in this area in North Devon. I work now with community-based projects, helping people work together more effectively. I have been a Parish Councillor in Braunton since 2019. I have supported the development of the Neighbourhood Plan and worked with others to support our community during the pandemic.