I've lived in Croyland & Swanspool ward for the past seven years and currently work as a courier driver in the "gig" economy for the likes of Deliveroo and Uber Eats (alongside finishing my degree that I started many moons ago!) Previously, I ran and owned a post office and village shop and worked as a postman.

Full statement

In this way, I don't just understand the challenges that ordinary workers and small businesses face in theory but in practice.

I'm standing for election because I want to see a better community and future for my young daughter and for all families in our area. I'm tired of seeing anti-social behaviour go unchecked, boarded-up shops in town and a sense of managed decline. It doesn't have to be this way.

Locally I've also worked as a volunteer driver for Shire Community Services. For me this highlighted the vital role accessible transport plays for our elderly and disabled residents. I would campaign vigorously for funding to support demand-response bus services in the ward as an alternative to restoring the old stagecoach service. These buses are flexible, efficient and environmentally friendly options and are already successfully used in places like West Sussex.

I also want to see our beautiful Croyland Park to be better maintained and managed for all to enjoy. We need to look at whether outsourcing of services is working in this respect

Finally, I will campaign for a fairer local taxation system. Council Tax is outdated model with valuations based on figures from 35 years ago. I support the Green Party's plan to reform the council tax system to ensure residents get a fairer deal.