I have been a Town Councillor and a New Forest District Councillor for several years and am already reasonably familiar with Marchwood. It is a nice place to live. Local people are very friendly and I know that the village is well served by a quality Parish Council and two able District Councillors.

My predecessor, Cllr. Mel Kendal, worked hard for Marchwood and although
we are of a different political persuasion, it would only be right and proper to acknowledge his achievements in helping Marchwood residents on so many issues.

The problem with election campaigns is that they can give the impression that politicians are always working against one another. The reality is quite different. Almost all of us co-operate when it comes to the best interests of the
community. I hope I can make a positive difference to the quality of life for all
who live in the village.

I am not going to express any immediate fixed ideas about what Marchwood needs and does not need. In the first few months of my office, I’m going to research things. I have read a few Council papers, previous newsletters and talked to a large number of residents. I hope to meet many more of you in the coming weeks. When I feel confident that I have sufficient knowledge, I can sort out the priorities and go about changing things for the better.

I will make a very real effort to keep in touch & be available to help people when needed.

If you have any views or comments you would like to share with me, I would be very pleased to hear from you.