I have been a resident of Charvil since 1999 when I moved to the area to take up a new job as a full time trade union official.  I retired some 6 years ago from Unite, one of the UK’s largest trade unions, after 27 years in my role. Prior to that I spent 24 years working for BT and upon leaving that company was an HR Manager. 

I am standing in this election for a number of reason and because I believe my experience offers the opportunity for positive advocacy for the people of the ward.  I also want to ensure that voters have the opportunity to exercise their vote, either in support of the Labour Party or in protest to the failings of others. 

It is not my intention to set out a list of false promises about what I would do or how I would do it.  However, what I will say is that I will work tirelessly and industriously to understand the concerns, issues and needs of the people of Charvil and the rest of the Ward, together with other like minded candidates. 

I do not believe that local politics should be overly influenced by national issue or policies, albeit some of the principles and objectives may be relevant, but that local issue and local people should set the agenda.  

If I was fortunate enough to be elected I would fulfil the commitments given above and would work along with the small group of Labour Councillors already elected, and hopefully re-elected, to Wokingham Borough Council.  That small group has a proud record of working with other parties when it is appropriate to do so to get things done but also to challenge, often those same parties, when it is the right thing to do when they have got it wrong.   

In summary therefore, all I will say is that if elected I will work extremely hard and make every effort to pursue policies and issues that are important to and necessary for this new ward of Thames and its’ residents.  I hope you will be able to vote for me and to encourage your family and friends to vote also.   

Thank you.