By Isle of Wight Observer
Firstly, I want to sincerely thank everyone who voted for me in the recent elections. I am incredibly humbled and overwhelmed by the trust you have placed in me to represent our community on the Isle of Wight Council.
I have lived in Sandown for the past 12 years, and have served as a town councillor for Sandown South for the last 5 years. Prior to this, 1985 to 2004, I ran a successful restaurant in St Helens, on the Island.
During my career as a Police Constable, and later as a Detective, I frequently dealt with highly challenging situations. This experience has taught me how to truly listen to people’s grievances and find workable solutions, even in the face of strong opposition. These skills will be invaluable when attending council meetings and connecting with constituents to address their concerns.
Finding compromise and working together will be vital at County Hall to ensure our local community and Island residents have a council that works best for them. Moving forward, I will be looking for ways to strengthen co-ordination between the Isle of Wight Council, Island Roads, and utility providers to reduce disruptions and delays through improved diversion planning, and more effective signage. Having been a business owner, the financial experience will be vital when discussing and scrutinising the council’s finances.
I promise 100 per cent commitment to my new role. I look forward to working collaboratively with all councillors for the betterment of our local wards and the Island as a whole.