See Jim's video here: https://1drv.

Full statement

ms/v/s!Atog3CZwpXPCgboh8pTN6LSG4djqBw?e=0u2yen

Read Jim's election address here: https://1drv.ms/b/s!Atog3CZwpXPCgbtGWKuxFV_pjORaig?e=YTHOzO

Jim was first elected in May 2012 and was re-elected in May 2016. A former teacher, Jim came to Stevenage in 1992.

Jim says:

“I have been a Councillor for over 8 years but active in my community for much longer, including the environment, transport, community schools and against racism.

One of my ambitions is to improve the environment, economy and safety of the High Street. Let’s make space so that people can meet in a relaxed way and look in shop windows without people having to squeeze past. Cut the noise and pollution and it will become a much better place to be.

Covid has had a huge impact on our community – our health, our economy and our well-being. When we emerge from the pandemic, our recovery must not be just about the economy but be a green recovery and bring us together socially.

The Government has not delivered on its promises to reimburse local councils for the work they asked us to do during the pandemic. That, together with the effects of lockdowns, will give your Council big financial difficulties next year. Believe me I did not get elected to make cuts.

In addition to my Council work, I am involved in active recreation groups. I launched local cycle challenge events such as Emitremmus and the Start of Summertime specials and organised them for many years. I am a committee member and part of the voluntary coaching team with Fairlands Valley Spartans and have run nineteen London Marathons.

I have been a governor of a Stevenage secondary school for 25 years and been involved with the Old Stevenage Community Association and the Stevenage Old Town Business and Community Partnership for a very long time.”