THE Green Party has named its candidate for a Herefordshire Council by-election following the resignation of the local councillor.

Dr Ellie Chowns, who lives in Canon Frome, first contested the Bishops Frome and Cradley ward for the Greens in May 2015 as the sole challenger to the Conservatives. She also contested the North Herefordshire seat in the general election earlier this year.

She said: "I gained a very encouraging share of the vote in the last local election and people have been urging me to have another go.

“I am working hard to win, energized by the knowledge that the county's Greens have been on a winning streak. Two of the three Green councillors on Herefordshire Council were elected with big majorities at by-elections.

“In my professional life I have been an advocate for the voiceless. I would love to put my skills to good use speaking up for the people Bishop's Frome and Cradley as their local councillor."

Dr Chowns, who is married with two teenage sons, has worked in education and charities, including senior roles with Christian Aid and Voluntary Service Overseas. Locally, she has been a primary school governor, a volunteer with HomeStart and ECHO Herefordshire and treasurer of a housing association.

The by-election takes place on 23 November.