I have lived in Ross West Ward since 2000 when my Ministry of Defence job moved to Malvern. I still work within the Defence Sector. I’m married to Caroline and have two grown-up children. We chose Ross because of its liveliness, beautiful setting, great independent shops and friendly people. I have been a governor at two Ross primary schools, Brampton Abbotts and Ashfield Park.

I am standing for election to provide direction and focus and to defend Ross Town from continuous cuts to its funding and services. Three years ago we saw the residents of Ross pay 50% more local tax, last year it increased by 20% and this year Ross residents will be seeing a further 10% increase. I feel with more long-term planning and risk management there would not be the need to continually dip into reserves for unplanned expenditure items.

I want greater integration of services across the Hospital, Primary Care and Adult Social Care with Ross Community Hospital as a key hub. I have collected over 500 signatures against any community hospital bed cuts, as there is currently great need for them. The Town Council should bring its influence to bear on policy decisions that affect the community.

I have been out and about reporting potholes and fly tipping, such as is in Pigs Alley, using the ‘fixmystreet’ app that allows anyone to report problems from potholes to dog mess to the appropriate authorities. It was great to hear Walford Road is finally being resurfaced.

I am fully supportive of local enterprise and utilising Ross assets, such as the Market House, for the benefit of small traders.