Why I chose to stand for council
To put it simply, I live in Ore, I care about where I live, and I feel I will make a real difference to our area. For too long we’ve been taken for granted and kept out of the loop regarding council issues.
Outside of election time I had never received a newsletter or update from a local councillor. I will change that.
Because I live here I will spot problems and will work hard to solve them quickly.
My background
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 pre-school children (Connie and Ernie).
In 2006 I became a Registered Nurse. My daughter was born shortly after I qualified, and since then I have looked after her, and later my son, full-time. 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.
I pledge:
-
1. To send out regular newsletters and update my blog weekly
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 well in advance, and will be held at weekends and evenings.
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.
