I'm born and bred in Stroud and have been back living in town since the mid-1980s. My background is in journalism, public relations and corporate communications. Over the years I have been involved with the Chamber of Trade, pressure groups and charities plus reporting on and working for local councils. Currently I am on the board of trustees for Stroud Valleys Project and the Biodynamic Land Trust.

I am very interested in regeneration and now I believe the town centre is at a tipping point with the upheaval in retail and want to work with residents, local businesses and other councils to find solutions to keep Stroud town centre vibrant and thriving.