A NEW town councillor for Ledbury will be elected on Thursday, November 6.

Two candidates are standing for one seat on the town council, following the recent resignation of Melanie Roberts.

The two candidates standing for election are Andrew Warmington, of Prince Rupert Road, who is standing for "It's Our County", and Mal Hughes, of Oatleys Road, who is independent.

Mr Warmington said: "Since moving to Ledbury in 2009, I have been extensively involved in local affairs. I was active in the LOTS campaign against out-of-town superstores, was secretary to the Town Plan Steering Committee and more recently have been in the Prince Rupert Green Community Group, which took charge of making its green space fit for community use when Herefordshire Council let us down so badly.

"I am standing as your It’s Our County candidate because I support their key principles of independence, transparency, sustainability and emphasising the local over pre-packaged solutions from outside. I would work to ensure that Ledbury continues to be an attractive place to live, work and visit, joining with our other market towns that have been neglected in recent years.

"Ledbury is facing development challenges as never before. The Town Council has limited control over them, but has much potential to influence outcomes for the community. As your town councillor, my top priorities would be to:

*Defend our unique High Street, which is a huge asset

*Support neighbourhood and voluntary groups, like over grass-cutting, litter, fouling or the Bye Street toilets

*Ensure greater transparency and inclusivity in the Town Council

*Protect and strengthen our valued local services"

Mr Hughes said: "I like being a team player, in sport, business and in life. What I can’t bear is being a member of a gang when I have to behave as the gang leader says. That is ‘party discipline’ and that is why I am standing as the independent candidate in the Ledbury Parish Council Elections on the 6th of November.

"Being independent means I will represent your views on Town Council, without fear or favour. I am a strong advocate, having represented people in trouble at work for over forty years, many of whom were being bullied or threatened. As an independent councillor, I will consult widely with all those who offer an opinion, and then make up my own mind about which way to vote.

"My wife Sue and I have lived in Ledbury for over twelve years. I am a university manager, the Conductor of Ledbury Community Choir, a stage director for The Market Theatre, organist at Much Marcle Church, a member of The Twinning Association and the Rugby Club. I also enjoy the odd pint so you can usually find me in one of our excellent pubs in the town. I look forward to meeting you."

  • The comments facility on this story has been suspended