It is an absolute privilege to stand as your Labour and Co-operative Party candidate for Blenheim Park Ward in the May 2024 elections and potentially serve the community I have come to call home.

Full statement

Having moved here from East London in 2013, with my wife and three children, I have had the joy of experiencing the unique fabric of our community. I’ve been an active community volunteer and activist. I regularly report residents' concerns to the council, litter pick sessions to maintain a clean and thriving neighbourhood. I also organise and participate in community events. All my children have attended schools within the city, including Westcliff High School, Lancaster School, and Eastwood Academy which has given me a deep personal connection and understanding of the diverse educational needs of children in Southend. I’m committed to driving up academic standards and tackling educational inequality.

As a lawyer, my first instinct has always been to help those in need. That motivation drives my dedication to tackling the issues facing residents across Blenheim and Southend-wide whether it’s the cost of living crisis, dire state of our roads or anti-social behaviour. I am committed to being your voice, actively listening to your concerns and advocating for them within the council chamber.

I live in Blenheim Park with my family, I know many of the issues that affect us locally and some of those you have raised with me and my campaign team. I have spent a lot of time talking to residents right across the Blenheim Park. For me, the most important element of being your local representative is listening to and voicing the ideas and concerns that you raised to me on the doorstep. I love our area, and I understand its needs. You want a clean, tidy and safe local area to live in, and so do I. I know that speeding and parking are issues across the whole ward. I know that residents are concerned with the rise in crime and anti-social behaviour. Litter, damaged grass verges, roads and pavements are all problems we feel passionate to address. When elected, I promise to be most visible and work hard to resolve these issues for you.

If elected, I will work tirelessly alongside my fellow Labour councillors Laurie Burton and Donna Richardson to ensure that Blenheim Park is a flourishing, welcoming, and safe place to live and work. Let us work hand in hand to build a brighter and more prosperous Southend.