I grew up in Uckfield, with family in East Grinstead and Forest Row, and went to school in Chailey. Now I work in Uckfield as head chef of a busy pub, a full-time job that I balance with my volunteer work.

As an experienced local councillor, I’ve had a lot of practice at fighting for our community, gaining skills as a politician along the way. I’ve served on Uckfield Town Council for the last 5 years, which has allowed me to do important work to combat food poverty, including helping to launch the hugely successful Uckfield Community Fridge. I also chaired the council’s Finance Committee through the early days of the pandemic, managing the budget responsibly in a tough time. Last year I was elected to Wealden District Council. As one of only two Labour councillors, we needed to work cross-party to secure the long-term future of Uckfield Leisure Centre, which was then threatened with closure. As a result of our efforts, a new 19-year lease has now been signed and residents can continue to enjoy the centre’s facilities for many years to come.

I joined the Labour Party to help defend our NHS. When I was 10 years old my mum was diagnosed with double breast cancer. Today, she is alive and well thanks to the skills and dedication of some incredible NHS workers. As a councillor, I have been working with the South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECamb) to address the issues their service is facing and the impact that cuts are having on paramedics and drivers. I have also campaigned to support the Uckfield Community First Responders, who are often first on the scene at medical emergencies, fundraising to help them buy vital equipment.

Another reason I got into politics was to improve opportunities for young people. Part of my voluntary work has been around countering the impact of funding cuts on youth services locally. Together with the town council, local businesses, and the police, we have re-established the Youth Club in Uckfield, which I am proud to say will re-open its doors in September 2024.

I’m also a proud member of Labour’s sister party, the Co-operative Party. I passionately believe in the values of the Co-operative movement, working with local businesses to build our community.

I’m standing for parliament to make the voice of communities like East Grinstead and Uckfield heard in Westminster. You can read here about what I’m pledging to do as an MP.