Following the retirement of much respected Councillor Laurence Ruffell, it is my privilege to have been selected to stand for the Upper Meon Valley ward atWinchester City Council.

Full statement

My family and I returned from overseas to live in the ward some 9 years ago attracted to the beautiful South Downs National Park. Both my wife and I now work in the immediate area, so we know well some of the frustrations, the goals and aspirations that residents experience; I understand them.

I know how challenging it is to have inadequate broadband and mobile phone reception for work, enjoyment or learning and will work with our M.P. and your other councillors to press for continual improvements.

Living in such beauty, we are lulled into a false sense of security, but car break-ins and farm equipment theft is still too common. I will work with our Police and Crime Commissioner to address this.

I feel passionate about where we live and work and will commit myself to making it an even better place for all.

I hope I can count on your support on May 5th

Best wishes,

Neil