My wife, Sandra, and I moved into the area in 1987, raising a family that has benefited from the strong local community ethos that exists.

My children were born in Solihull and educated at our local Monkspath and Alderbrook Schools, and this has provided them with a great start in life; the value of strong schools is reflected by the success we can see in our primary and senior schools.

As a ward Councillor I will be working alongside Cllrs Ken Hawkins, and Richard Holt witnessing first-hand the benefits of having a strong local presence representing Blythe within Solihull Council.

Blythe is a fantastic place to live and bring up our families. We are working hard to address crime and anti-social behaviour, protecting and improving our green spaces along with supporting our residents.

I recently retired as a PE teacher in the borough and coached many a local football team. I have recently been a member of the local Streetwatch Group and have undertaken many volunteer roles.

I am proud of our community and pledge to always work hard and continue to ensure that all residents of Blythe ward have the best representation in Solihull.