I live in Ore and I’m determined to make a real positive difference to the area. I’ve started by setting up a new community group called Ore Together which brings together residents, traders and community leaders with a view to making Ore an even better place to live. Since becoming a councillor I’ve also become a governor at Sandown Primary School, again another area where I’d like to make an impact.
I’m originally from the land of cream teas, fishing boats and where football fans chant for their Green Army. Plymouth!
I’m married to Abigail (who spends half her time working on the radio and the other half teaching at a university) and we have two children (Connie and Ernie).
I’m a trained nurse and I’ve taken a career break to look after my children. I intend to return to nursing when they both go to primary school.
I started work in the NHS 15 years ago, and it’s no coincidence that I’ve been a Labour Party member for the same amount of time.
What I promise:
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1. To send out regular newsletters and publish any news online
I will tell you what I’m doing for the ward and how I’ve voted on council issues, and to ask for your input.
2. To hold monthly drop-in surgeries within the ward
These meetings will be publicised in the local paper and/or on leaflets/notices and will be held at weekends.
3. To fight to give Ore residents a greater say in planning
Personally I believe that consulting a few neighbours either side of a proposed development is not good enough. If you can see the development or it is likely to have an impact on you – you should be consulted by the council and your councillor.
4. To fight to bring back grit bins to Ore
I’d also like the local council to have its own supply of grit instead of relying on East Sussex County Council. I know residents who were too afraid to venture to Ore Village because of icy, ungritted pavements. Much more needs to be done.
5. To knock on doors and speak to residents every week
Some councillors stop canvassing the day after the election. I will be different.
6. To ensure that money given to Hastings gets spent in Hastings
When the Tories controlled Hastings Borough Council they gave £250,000 to Bexhill rather than spending it within our town. I will always vote to ensure the best deal for our town and our ward.
