I’ve never been a member of a political party and believe passionately in putting my local community first.

Full statement

Like many people, I have become increasingly disillusioned with party politics, both at a national and local level, and believe that now is the time to send a message of our dissatisfaction to the political establishment.

My background is in publishing and communications, including a period contributing to Bath Life magazine. As an Independent Councillor on B&NES, I’ll pose the challenging questions that have to be asked and will be the strong voice at the Guildhall that Widcombe & Lyncombe so desperately needs.

I believe that a well-managed streetscape, improved signage and an enriched natural environment will serve to enhance the wellbeing of all, and would encourage more visitors to Widcombe.

If elected I intend to work with planners, designers, developers, GWR and Network Rail to address these issues.

Equally, the River Avon is an underused, neglected thoroughfare through the heart of Bath and has proven a death trap on too many occasions. I am keen to see the river rejuvenated – with increased leisure and commercial traffic – and particularly look forward to the prospect of working with the Bath River Line team when Phase Two of this exciting project reaches the city centre.