Former well known Liberal Democrat Councillor Coleen Gill has announced she will stand in this year's East Riding elections as an Independent.
Coleen, a Parish Councillor for Elloughton-cum-Brough in Dale Ward, who was born in the East Riding and has 2 grown up children, has pledged to challenge the order and provide a voice on the Council unbiased by party politics.
She said: “During recent months, a number of people have asked – indeed urged me – to stand as an Independent candidate in this year's elections".
"They were kind enough to say that they have valued my expertise, experience, and hard work as a member of the community".
"Voting for an Independent this year can make a real difference. We are very aware that in these difficult times of austerity and cut backs Councillors need to work together in the best interests of ratepayers by putting aside party policies”.
"I ask residents to come out and vote for me on the day, and so allow me to represent them and their views independently”.
Coleen, like many residents, feels disillusioned by party politics both nationally and locally. She has not been a party member of over 3 years and says “It is no longer acceptable for candidates to say one thing to get your vote and do the opposite or very little once elected".
"Voting for your usual political party in this election will not change things nationally but if you support me I promise I will work hard for you locally".
"It seems like nothing much has been done in our area. We still have loose grit on our roads and pavements from the bad snowfall last year. It appears no-one is challenging the Council officers or aware of any of the issues that are important to residents” said Coleen.
"And it's easy for anyone to get the impression that things can't be done because of 'cut backs.' There is still taxpayers money being collected, so we need a strong voice for Dale Ward to help get more of it spent here” added Coleen.
Coleen's previous 12 years' experience as an East Riding Councillor for Dale Ward was between 1995 and 2007, when she served on a variety committees including Planning and Healthy Environment.
At the last East Riding election 4 years ago, when there was an upsurge of anti Labour Government voting Coleen came forth missing out from being re-elected to the top 3 Dale Ward seats by just a few votes.
Despite this Coleen has continued her work in the community. She has worked tirelessly, as volunteer worker and chairperson of the local Yorkshire In Bloom committee and gaining the area 4 awards and is currently working on the fifth.
Coleen is also a volunteer driver for BVAC, an organisation which provides car lifts for the elderly and disabled to Hospitals and Doctors appointments.
Many will also know Coleen as their aerobics instructor, something which she trained to do professionally over the past 2 years. She now runs 3 weekly aerobics classes in the area.
Coleen has spoken out today to declare her desire to serving the residents of Dale Ward, once again with as much of her energy and enthusiasm as ever.
