I have lived in Stratford since 2009, working in the town as an investment manager and helping my wife run a B&B from our house.

Full statement

Over the years I have become incredibly proud to call the town my home, but increasingly I have become disillusioned with our politicians locally and in Westminster. I strongly believe that their values, priorities and opinions bear no resemblance to the people living and working in Stratford.

I am standing to encourage a return of common sense. The last few years have seen a progression of issues that are impossible to ignore.

Gridlock on the roads with uncoordinated roadworks

Shops and restaurants demolished and abandoned

Town centre offices left empty

New offices being built

New houses blighting the countryside

Council taxes rising

Public services strained

These problems are solvable and the time is up for those responsible to stand aside.

I want to help bring some pride back to Stratford. I don’t believe all is lost, despite what we constantly hear. With grit, clear thinking and positive energy we can undo the damage that has been inflicted on us by the incompetence of our current leaders.

More than this, I want to make Stratford a world centre for the performing arts. Think Hay on Wye and literature, Vienna and classical music, Florence and art. With William Shakespeare behind us, there are no limits to what we can achieve.”

Born in Derby in 1971, James went to a local comprehensive school before going on to gain a degree in Economics and Politics and a masters degree in Finance and Investment, both from Exeter University. This took him to the City of London where he worked for several stockbrokers and investment management companies for almost 20 years.

James’s policy interests centre around business and the economy. He has specific expertise in corporate governance, the importance of incentives and the profit motive.

His heroes and influences include Milton Friedman, Thomas Sowell, Warren Buffett and Brian Clough.