I HAVE lived in Ilminster all my life, even during a 23-year career in the Army which took me to many places around the world, Ilminster has always been home.

Having re-trained as an arborist during my last few years service, and on leaving the Armed Forces as a warrant officer in February this year, I am now employed as a surveyor field manager with Scottish and Southern Energy working in the local area.

I am married with two young children and my wife works at the local primary school. As an active member of the community I am part of Ilminster Christmas lights, I play cricket for the town, work at Ilminster Party on the Park, I actively support the children’s and main carnival and I am an adult volunteer with Ilminster Army Cadets.

My children are involved with both Ilminster youth football and cricket, the Warehouse Theatre and Ilminster Swimming Club.

Should I be elected, I aim to improve council transparency and communications with the people of Ilminster, the use and maintenance of open spaces for the good and benefit of all sections of the community and regardless of where future developments are proposed.

I will support the people of Ilminster in obtaining the right facilities and infrastructure required our thriving town deserves.