I have lived in Brockenhurst for 30 years and know what it’s like to live, work, play and raise a family here. During these years I’ve worked locally as a primary school teacher and currently teach part-time in Southampton. I have always taken part in my local community – by serving as an elected Parish Councillor for eleven years; as Co-ordinator of the pioneering Brockenhurst Healthy Village Project and as a Trustee of the Village Hall where for example, when my children were young, I organised a group of parents to raise money for the playground’s much needed new safety surface and play equipment – a project delivered successfully on time and within budget.  Always working for the benefit of our community and our environment.

I believe local councillors should listen to the people they represent. That’s why we carried out our Residents’ Survey earlier this year. Residents have told us of their concerns and dissatisfaction with the services we receive, and pay for in our council tax, from the Conservative-led Hampshire County Council. I am not currently a councillor but because I believe in fair, strong communities I am standing as a candidate in the Hampshire County Council election for the Brockenhurst Division on Thursday 4 May.

I will listen to you and speak up for a fair deal for you, your family, our communities and our environment – the very special New Forest. Working within the limits imposed by central government cuts – your priorities will be my priorities.

Thank you very much.