I HAVE close connections with East Hampshire going back to my childhood and I look forward to championing local people’s issues and causes.

I have been a twice-elected Liberal Democrat councillor. During this time, I set up popular street surgeries for the local constituencies and established a successful residents’ association for 450 homes.

I also co-founded the Liberal Democrats Disability Association and have long fought hard for improving health and social care through various local and national policy groups.

I have 20 years’ senior leadership experience in the charity sector – formerly the chief executive of the British Deaf Association – and I am currently head of a disability services organisation tackling areas including employment, welfare benefits, independent living and young people’s opportunities.

I also used to be the vice-chairman of governors at a large primary school – where I see first hand the effects of cutbacks on children’s learning.

We live in challenging times and it’s vital we learn from the past – but also look confidently to the future. Whether you are eight or 80, local people need to be reassured that someone is fighting for them on the crucial issues of the day – health, education, affordable housing, climate change or Brexit.

Local people often feel they are not being listened to. As your MP, I will ensure you are.

*More from the other candidates to follow.