I’ve spent my whole working life in South Yorkshire – and mainly in mining villages in the Dearne Valley.

Full statement

So I know Barnsley South’s communities really well. My early career was to reduce pollution of the River Dearne – which now supports fish along its length.

I moved with my wife to the borough 26 years ago, and I worked for Barnsley Council in various environmental roles for 19 years. I have managed the maintenance of the Trans-Pennine Trail and Council nature reserves, plus I have been the advisor on wildlife issues. I want a Review of the Council’s ‘Local Plan’ as I think too much land has been taken out of Green Belt for development. This is one of the reasons I got active with the Green Party – that and the policy of Universal Basic Income, which I think tries to make the UK a fairer country for people. I’m Barnsley Green Party’s Communications Officer. As well as being a passionate naturalist, I’m a keen racing cyclist – being the Chairman of Birdwell Wheelers. I also campaign for safer roads.