Lib Dems set to fight local by-elections

9.44.13am GMT Fri 11th Nov 2005

Thurrock Liberal Democrats have selected John Livermore and Paul Riley to contest the wards of Grays Riverside and The Homesteads respectively in the forthcoming by-elections which are due to take place on 1st December 2005. These elections were caused by the resignation of a Labour councillor and the cessation of membership of a Conservative councillor.

Paul Riley, candidate for the Homesteads Ward said, "As an Office Manager in the city and a governor at a special needs school, I know what it means to be responsible and accountable. I take my job seriously and the things I do. I enjoy problem solving and getting to the bottom of things. I am respectful of other people's opinions and I am used to making tough decisions. I hate waste and I am fair minded."

"We attracted by the lovely area, quiet community and calm surroundings. Now this seems to be under threat with the proposed port construction, Thames Gateway, along with the Wharf Road development which will affect how we move about, and the look and feel of our community. I discovered how hard it is to get a GP for me and my family."

"Like many residents I feel strongly about my community and I am prepared to do something for it."

" I would like to get elected so that I can work hard to:

• Be a strong voice and speak up on behalf of fellow residents (silent majority). We are faced with massive developments in which the voice of local residents is not listened to.

• Fight for the reinstatement of Street Wardens. They have made a positive contribution to community life especially working with young people. Many people were sad to see this vital service withdrawn.

• Represent the views of residents on the council and report through regular newsletters to residents on my activities on the council.

• Fight for a fair share of improved services for the Homesteads."

John Livermore, Grays Riverside candidate said, "I have lived in Thurrock all my life and I have seen a lot of changes not necessarily all for good. I have contested elections for the Grays Riverside before."

" If I am elected, I would like to

• See a council which puts people before politics.

• Be a watchdog for the residents of Grays Riverside on Thurrock Borough Council.

• Fight for better amenities for Grays Riverside.

• Root out waste.

• Fight for an improved and efficient delivery of services by the Council on behalf of residents

• See improved recycling facilities.

• Fight for improved health facilities in the Thurrock as we do not have our own general hospital

• Ensure that all mobile phone masts are subject to planning control and that residents are fully consulted about their siting in the area."

" We pay a lot of money in council taxes and many people are wondering what they get in return. I want to see a council which is more transparent and accountable to the electorate."

"I believe that being a councillor is an honour to work for the benefit of residents, to reflect their views and to speak up on their behalf."