BELMONT
David Marshall Hall (Lab)
 David
currently works for the Legal Services Commission, is a volunteer advisor
at Durham’s Citizens Advice Bureau, is a former volunteer union staff
representative and branch president, and was recently proposed as a school
governor in Belmont. David is committed to increasing community involvement
in local government, putting residents and their views at the forefront
of decision-making. David will work to ensure the wealth of education,
care, and council services currently provided in the area are developed
and modernised. David would also like to work with residents to provide
new community-based education, youth and leisure services, improve traffic
management and public transport options, and encourage local entrepreneurship.
Kenneth Holroyd (Lib Dem)
 Ken
has lived in Belmont since 1963 and was elected to Durham County Council
in 2005 where he serves on several committees and has participated in
a variety of scrutiny investigations. He has worked to make Belmont a
better and safer place having successfully campaigned for the first pedestrian
crossing in the Division and promoted the reopening of Belmont Viaduct.
He has opposed inappropriate developments in the area and has helped residents
in dealings with a variety of organisations. He currently chairs the Parish
Flood Prevention Group and looks forward to remedial work planned to start
in 2009.
Trish Johnston (Lab)
 I
am a retired social worker who lives in Belmont. I am married to Rick
and have two grown up children who attended local schools. I am a Governor
at Cheveley Park School and is a member of the board of Durham Alliance
for Community Care, which provides day care for older people. I am also
a voluntary worker at the Prison Visitors Centre. If elected my main priorities
locally would be to ensure streets and green spacesa are kept clean and
that fly tipping is clamped down on. Labour will continue to campaign
against inappropriate new developments that add little to the area.
Eric Stuart Mavin (Lib Dem)
 Eric
has lived in Belmont for over 20 years. He is a parish and city councillor
for Belmont. Eric is always out and about visiting people and listening
to their concerns. He is very concerned about the provision for young
people , he helps run a voluntary youth club, and he chairs the ‘Playground
Development Committee’ – he has worked hard to improve the park amenities
in the area. He is working to improve the Cheveley Park shopping area.
He is very hard working and conscientious and always tries his best for
the people in the area.
Tom McCall (Con)
 My
name is Thomas McCall and I'm the Conservative candidate for Belmont.
My aim is to make sure local concerns are raised in the council, and only
with an opposition party can this happen, for too long the worries of
Belmont residents have been ignored by the Liberal Democrat City Council
and the Labour County Council. If elected I would:
* Ensure that the concerns residents have with crime and anti-social behaviour
in the area is tackled swiftly and effectively.
* Protect and preserve Durham's green spaces for future generations to
use and enjoy.
* Get the best value services for your council tax.
In Belmont, for an alternative from the same old Liberal and Labour council,
vote for Thomas McCall and the Conservative Party on May 1st.
Jenifer Wakefield (Local Con)
Arthur Walker (Ind)
BRANDON
Colin Hollis Clark (Lib Dem)
 I
have lived in Durham City for my whole adult life and strongly believe
in helping my local area by working to improve what can be improved. My
main areas of interest are crimonogenic behaviour and solutions, joined
up effective transport (public and private access) and equality for ALL
(no positive or negative discrimination). I have valuable experience in
each of these fields and if elected would hope to help solve these important
issues. All problems can only be solved by cooperation not opposition
and confrontation. Please consider carefully who you chose to vote for
but please do vote.
Heather Clarke (BNP)
Henry Hudson-Evans (Con)
 Conservative
means conservation. Conservation of the stratosphere, recycling times
or the unjust development of Elvet Riverside. This attitude towards conservation
is, I think, critical to the maintaining of what is good about our local
community and its heritage. In my area of Brandon there has been a history
of Labour dominance. Is this the same Labour that people have put their
trust in? That have killed off the North-East's finest bank through indecision
and the same Labour who with the destruction of the 10p tax band have
made all of us with low incomes pay so much more. We need to ask ourselves
what this is for? Has our life in Brandon really improved under the local
council. If you want a focussed, committed and decisive leadership to
stand-up for Brandon and our environment then Vote Conservative!
Ronnie Rodgers (Lab)
 I
have lived in the Brandon area all of my life and understand the needs
and aspirations of the young and old of our community. From 1997, when
I was elected as a County Councillor, I have been pro-active in every
aspect of our community’s well-being including Chairman of Durham County
Council Planning, Carrside Youth Club, Brandon Community Centre, Governor
of Langley Moor Primary and Poppy Appeal co-ordinator. I am looking forward
to the new Unitary Authority and would like your support to make Brandon,
Meadowfield, Browney and Langley Moor a better place to live and bring
up a family.
Selina Loraine Ross (BNP)
Maureen Jean Ann Smith (Lib Dem)
I am an experienced councillor. I have also been involved in government appointed
Voluntary work for over 21 years.
Having lived in Meadowfield,Brandon and Langley Moor I have developed understanding of the people
and their problems.
By visiting all areas and working seven days a week I try to reach out to those who might be able to help
to resolve issues. I strive to be approachable to all residents so that we can work together to
achieve the very best for our community and make the area a good place to live and work.
Paul Taylor (Lab)
 As
a City Councillor I have dedicated myself to being a strong campaigning
voice for our community. I care passionately about our community and it's
people, my desire and determination to see improvements in our community
is unwavering.
Should the people of my community feel I am worthy of their support, I
would work to see that the new authority maintained the excellent 4 star
services being provided by the County Council and bring other services
up to this standard. Value for money services, getting young people off
the streets and into positive activities, affordable housing, zero tolerance
of anti social behaviour and public consultation would be my priorities.
COXHOE
Christine Susan Holt (Con)
Sarah Elizabeth Millerchip (Lib Dem)
 Sarah
Millerchip is keen to join the Lib Dem team to make a difference in the
Coxhoe division. She is a committed campaigner and would like to make
sure our area is kept clean and tidy and that anti-social behaviour is
stamped out. She says "Our area has suffered most from Labour's complacency.
It is time for a change in Coxhoe and I want to be part of the Lib Dem
team that fights for local people."
Dennis Morgan (Lab)
I am seeking the support of the people of Coxhoe, Kelloe, Quarrington Hill, Cassop and Park Hill in order that I may continue to serve the community as your County Councillor. My proven skills equip me to be an experienced, enthusiastic and able representative of our communities. My record demonstrates an ability to deliver – on traffic calming, environmental concerns, public safety, education and health. My experience of local government finance as a former county cabinet member will help ensure the tax payer gets value for money for public services. I am willing to listen to residents’ concerns, am available to meet with all and seek solutions to the challenges we all face.
Maria Leina Plews (Lab)
 I
am married with children and have lived at Coxhoe over 16 years. I am
currently ward councillor for Coxhoe, Kelloe and Quarrington Hill on the
city Council and I work for British Airways. I would love the opportunity
to continue to representat our community. I am involved in the community,
dealing with issues and helping to plan future projects. I am enthusiastic
about protecting our what's good about our villages and will ensure they
have all they need to flourish in future.
Dennis Smith (Ind)
 "Putting
people before politics"
I am a local lad born and living in Coxhoe all my life. I feel that I
know the feelings and the needs of the villages of Cassop, Coxhoe, Kelloe,
Parkhill and Quarrington Hill. I have been a member of Coxhoe Parish Council
for 5 years and an elected City Councillor serving Coxhoe, Kelloe and
Quarrington Hill villages. During my past year I have attempted to serve
all residents equally within the ward no matter what political views they
hold, honestly and fairly and will continue to do so if elected.
Carole Wigham (Lib Dem)
 Carole
Wigham is a local campaigner, she lives in Quarington Hill and says "I
want to work for our villages to make sure we get the best deal possible
for local residents. I would like to see more facilities for children
and young people. I will campaign to get good play equipment in all our
villages. I would like to join the Lib Dem team on the City Council to
help make a difference in our area. For too long we have been neglected
by Labour"
DEERNESS VALLEY
David Bell (Lab)
 I
am the current City Councillor for New Brancepeth and Ushaw Moor ward.
I am involved in a wide range of community groups, I am chair of school
governors at New Brancepeth Primary School and Chair of the Federation
between Durham Community Business College and Fyndoune Community College.
I am also involved in the New Brancepeth Village Hall Association, Youth
Club and Methodist Church. I am currently leader of the Labour Group on
Durham City Council. I have taken up many issues on behalf of residents
locally for example securing the new Car Park at Deerness Leisure Centre
and environmental improvements in Ushaw Moor.
Jean Chaplow (Lab)
 I
am the current County Councillor for the Deerness Valley division. I am
heavily involved in the community and have assisted many groups across
the division with grants to support their activities. I live in Esh Winning
and am a member of the school governors at Durham Community Business College
and Silver Tree Primary. I am also a member of the Esh Winning banner
group. Since I was elected I have worked hard to deliver improvements,
including the installation of many dropped kerbs and other road safety
changes. I worked with the local community for the improvement project
for Esh Winning Market Place and continue to press for more funding to
complete the project.
Kathleen Joan Margaret Currie (Con)
 Before
living in Durham I served as a District and County Councillor in Suffolk.
I was also the Chairman of the only, at that time, NHS Trust in East Anglia.
I Chaired a number of Regional and National Committees in the Health Service.
I have a keen interest in womens health issues especially as I have had
ME. and breast cancer twice. I firmly believe that being a Councillor
is about listening to all people, helping everyone and not promoting self
interest or a large remuneration. A good Councillor is a caring democratic
person who is there to serve.
Peter James Gray (BNP)
 My
name is Peter Gray. The BNP are not a racist party and believe everyone
has a vauable part to play in the human race. We do not hate anyone because
of their race or gender nor do we advocate abusing or attacking individual
imigrants or minority groups as they are not to blame. The mounting problems
in Britain were caused by bad government policy over the years and are
political, so they can only be solved at the ballot box by you, the electors.
The BNP stands for freedom, commonsense, fairness and putting British
people first.
Paul Guy (Lib Dem)
 Born
& bred in Ushaw Moor,educated at Deerness Valley Comprehensive School.
I work in financial services. My family inhabit every village in Deerness.
Rugby,soccer,cricket and car maintenance are my hobbies. My partner and
I are active foster parents. Elected as a Parish and City councillor in
2007. Great strides can be made to achieve a better quality of life through
listening to what people want to make our communities more welcoming and
pleasant.For success depends upon us all working together to create a
place where people want to live and work, now and in the future.
Kirsty Morton (BNP)
 My
name is Kirsty Morton. I like many others are sick and tired of the increase
of taxes and anti-social behavior. I believe in the housing of British
people before asylum seekers, I believe immigation should be stopped,
I believe we should work towards building a better NHS and I believe there
should be zero tolerance on crime. I think that British jobs should be
for British workers and that we should withdraw from the EU. There should
be lower council taxes and better education for all. Its people like you
voting BNP that can make this happen.
John Wilkinson (Lib Dem)
 Born
& raised in Esh Winning, educated at Durham Johnston Grammar and Westminster
College. My teaching career included Ushaw Moor Juniors and headteacher
in Zambia and Esh Winning Primary. A member of Dunelm Club, Durham Bede
Rotary and treasurer of a Luncheon Club. Councillors should consider the
issues of local concern and bring effective, efficient services to local
areas so electors have real influence over what happens in their community.
Deerness people deserve to inhabit green, clean and safe communitie so
let us work together for a successful future.
DURHAM SOUTH
David Brian Atkinson (BNP)
Jan Blakey (Lab)
 I
am currently a Cassop-cum-Quarrington Parish Councillor and involved in
many community groups and organisations. I’ve lived in Bowburn all my
life so I’m committed to its future, making sure it gets the improvements
residents deserve. I have strong family ties across the area as my mother
came from Shincliffe. I am a member of the local strategic partnership,
trustee of the Bowburn and Parkhill partnership and the Chair of the Friends
of Bowburn Infants School. I am committed to safer streets for our area,
I worked with residents to set up the neighbourhood watch scheme, and
so I will work to ensure the area is made as safe as possible.
Rhys Burriss (Con)
 For:
reducing council tax ( start by reducing councillors' allowances! ) ;
robust 'back to the future' policing: more PCs visible on foot and bike
patrol; a tougher attitude to repeat criminals whose mission in life is
making decent people's lives a misery.
Against: management-speak nonsense: if an idea looks daft I am not afraid
to say so. After Oxford I studied law and worked in legal / court management
capacities in London, County Durham, and the Caribbean. This varied career
experience informs my attitudes / policies. If, like me, you despise career
politicians' complacency and wastefulness - vote for change!
Patrick Hague (Con)
 Durham
is one of England's most beautiful cities and worthy of respect and conservation.
That much is obvious; not only to us as residents but to our many tourists
as well. Our current administration has not only failed to safeguard this
inheritance, with its reckless sale of green spaces for development, but
has also failed to contribute to our prosperity, with council tax hikes
beyond inflation to little effect. At a time of rising energy and food
prices we all feel the pinch. The least we can expect from our council
is not to contribute to the problem.
Katherine Adele Lloyd (BNP)
Martin Thomas Ridley (Ind)
Maggie Robinson (Ind)
 I
am presently a City Councillor and have been for the past 9yrs for the
Cassop-cum-Quarrington Ward, covering the villages of Bowburn, Parkhill,
Hett, Croxdale and Sunderland Bridge. A Parish Councillor for 25yrs of
which I have served as Chairperson for the past 10yrs, I have established
Residents Groups in three of the villages, Bowburn, Parkhill, and Croxdale.
Married to a local lad and have lived in Bowburn and Parkhill for the
past 27yrs, during my service as a City and Parish Councillor I have attempted
to seve all residents no matter what political views they hold as individuals
Adam Joseph Walker (Lib Dem)
 I
have lived in Durham since 1984, when my family moved to allow my stepfather
to take up a lecturer's post at the University. I served in the TA 7th
Light Infantry from 1985 to 1992, and in 251 Field Ambulance from 1994
to 2001, serving two tours in Bosnia. I studied at Durham myself, from
1995-1997. In 20 years I have been a care assistant, student nurse, office
worker, student, soldier, shopfloor worker, Citizens Advice worker and
now a politician. I feel that this experience fits me ideally for the
post of councillor in an evolving Authority, representing people who are
all too often ignored.
Mac Williams (Lab)
 I
am the sitting County Councillor for Durham South and hav also been a
Parish Councillor on Croxdale and Hett Parish Council for a number of
years. I was born in County Durham, at Seaham Harbour and now lives with
my partner Pauline in Sunderland Bridge, Croxdale. I have a strong interest
in law and order having served for 12 years on the Police Authority and
as a Justice of the Peace at Durham. If re-elected I will continue to
put issues forward at County Hall honestly and forcefully on your behalf
taking a keen interest in education, the environment, young people, health
and social care.
Robert William Wynn (Lib Dem)
 A
Durham City Councillor for almost nine years and a member of the Cabinet
for three years, Deputy Leader for one before becoming Deputy Mayor and
this year's Mayor. During the last year I felt it important to visit groups
of all ages throughout the local community and listen to their concerns
and hopes for the future. On having been forced to accept a Unitary Authority,
together we must make it work. I am determined to ensure that Durham South
gets the support it deserves. We need to highlight many issues, including
traffic control licensing, crime and disorder, environmental improvements
and funding for local projects. I will support efforts to influence planning
and access to funding to improve the local area.
ELVET
Chris Arthur (Con)
In this increasingly congested island of ours, Durham stands out as a shining example of what a good city life can be like - for it is still possible to walk from its very heart through woods and by a river into open fields. Living in the Elvet ward, I feel particularly conscious of this and if elected will make it my principal task to fight for the preservation of Durham's green spaces, its most precious asset, where its people can walk and relax, enjoying simple pleasures which are always the best kind. The quality of life here is my priority.
Katie Ford (Lab)
 I
am currently a student at Durham University so if elected as the local
councillor I will aim to develop better links between the University community
and other residents who live in the city. Becoming a student I served
as a Police Officer so will make community safety and the prevention of
crime both amongst students and amongst other residents a major priority
of mine.
David Robert Freeman (Lib Dem)
 Having
lived in Durham all my life and been a City Centre Councillor for five
years I know residents are very concerned about the challenges our City
faces, development pressures, protecting our green spaces and making the
City a safer place. I have actively campaigned and spoken against previous
poor planning applications and about controlling our so called 'night
time' economy. Listening to the local community and acting on it has,
and will continue to be my major priority. I promise to continue to keep
residents informed all year round and fight to ensure that Durham's views
are not ignored.
Tim Hughes (Con)
 Durham
is a fantastic city. It has managed to avoid many of the town vs. gown
disputes that usually ruin a university town. However, as a student, I
strongly believe that students could and should get more involved in the
community they live in and take an interest in its upkeep. As a student
councillor I would represent Durham's biggest disenfranchised minority:
the student population. I wish to act as a bridge between the town and
the university and it would be an honour to be given the opportunity.
Jonathan Priestman Lovell (Lab)
I have been a teacher for more than 35 years with special interest in, and enthusiasm for local authority performing arts provision. My position of acting head of Gateshead Schools’ Music Service has given me management experience of the organisation of local authority childrens’ services which, if elected, I would bring to the new authority in Durham. Upon retirement in Summer 2008, I shall have time and energy to devote to the emerging unitary council. As a member of Elvet Residents’ Association Committee [and until recently chairman], I have taken a strong line against proposals to build on green space at the ancient racecourse in Durham.
Anji Rae (Ind)
I appreciate living in Durham City. I have been a councillor and cabinet member since 2003. I live in the ward, I walk the ward. I will continue to arrange forums, attend residents' meetings, liaise with officers and residents on key decisions and I will champion the creation of a Town Council. I will continue to work with key partners on environmental projects having led the introduction of Durham City's new recycling contract. I share residents' concerns about City Centre development and will continue to oppose large scale or inappropriate developments. This Local election isn't a monopoly for political parties.
David Stoker (Lib)
 A
Unitary authority requires councillors to think strategically and act
locally. We must develop and deliver a vision to take the County forward
in an efficient and environmentally friendly fashion. Durham City needs
a Town Council to bridge the gap between neighbourhoods and County Hall.
Elvet needs councillors who care and listen. Decades of Labour neglect
and petty politics must be overturned. We must: invest in youth services,
and vigorously combat anti social behaviour; co-ordinate public transport
and properly repair our roads and pavements; and have robust and consistent
planning systems. Above all we must have a Council we're proud of.
FRAMWELLGATE MOOR
Michael Bates (Con)
 Michael
Bates lives and works in the Aykley Heads, Durham. He is a graduate of
Oxford University and has served as both a Member of Parliament and a
government minister. Michael set up his first business in Durham twenty
years ago and two years ago he set up his second giving opportunities
to local people. He understands how tough it is for entrepreneurs to grow
their businesses in the face of mounting bureaucracy and increases in
taxes. Michael is also writing a doctorate in foreign policy at Durham
University and in his spare time enjoys going to the movies .
George William Burlison (Lab)
The establishment of a Unitary Authority will make providing opportunities for communities to have much more say over their destinies an important part of the Councillors role. With the electorate’s permission I want to continue to be in touch with all sections of the community including Parish Councils, Voluntary and Neighbourhood groups and vulnerable members of the community. I want to make our roads safer for motorists and pedestrians, invest and work with local play groups, nurseries & schools to give our children the best, promote community policing and place community centres at the heart of villages. By working together we can make things happen.
Simon Paul Carey (Ind)
 "I
was brought up in Durham and have lived in Pity Me with my family for
21 years. Having worked in Local Government since 1982 I understand how
Councils function and to get the best out of them. I am a Magistrate in
County Durham and carry out these voluntary duties regularly. Working
with residents and community groups for the last few years I assure you
that I will address your concerns and support you on all local issues.
I have a willingness to represent you and the experience necessary to
make a real and lasting difference to our community".
Rev Crooks (Lib Dem)
 Rev
was born and raised in Bearpark and is a well known and active member
of the local community. Much of his focus during his time on the Council
has been on improving facilities for residents, particularly young people,
and on pressuring the County Council to curb the traffic problems on our
roads. Rev helps run the local youth club, illustrating his commitment
to involvement at the grassroots level. Rev will continue to be a strong
voice for our villages. He believes that small things can make a great
difference on a local level. His first priority as your Councillor will
always be to the get the best deal for local residents.
Terry Moderate
(Ind)
THE May 1st elections offers voters the chance to break away from years of fierce party political in-fighting that has damaged the County as a whole.
As an Independent candidate I'm in a position to represent you, the electorate, not just the interests of increasingly divided parties.
I believe in working with individuals and groups within our community, getting to the heart of their problems and actually sorting them out.
For many years this philosophy has worked successfully for Independent City and Parish councillors like myself in Framwellgate Moor, Pity Me and Brasside.
I would be honoured to extend this same high standard of representation to the County ward of Bearpark, Brasside, Framwellgate Moor and Witton-Gilbert to enhance an area we are all very proud of.
A vote for Independent gets real results.
Ralph Stephen Musgrave (BNP)
I have lived in Framwellgate Moor thirty years. The British National Party wants Britain to retain its traditional and unique characteristics. We believe in traditional education, not trendy teaching methods. We want to keep post offices and weekly bin collections. We do not want any further Islamic influence. We oppose mass immigration because this country is already over-crowded. Who wants half of Co Durham covered in concrete? We think the Lib Dem "save our post offices" campaign is questionable, because the Lib Dems favour EU membership (opposed by the BNP). The post office problem results from EU regulations!
Mark Wilkes (Lib Dem)
I live in the area and I care about turning around the neglect we have
suffered under Labour. Since I was elected as a local District Councillor
for the area last year, I have worked on improving road safety, reducing
litter, tackling anti-social behaviour and highlighting our deteriorating
roads and pavements. I have also campaigned for better facilities for
local residents, young and old, and fought against Labour plans to close
local Post Offices. Working with fellow Lib Dem Redvers Crooks and local
community groups we will get the best value for your council tax and will
continue to communicate all year round through Focus leaflets, on my blog
at markwilkes.mycouncillor.org.uk and through meetings in all five of
our unique villages.
Marion Wilson (Lab)
 Becoming
a Councillor in the new Unitary Authority would mean that I could play
a major role in developing a better quality of life for people of the
area. I would ensure that local interests are taken into account in decisions
made about our area and that local communities receive the services that
are needed. I would seek to make improvements in our Services for Children,
the Elderly and the Vulnerable. If I have the confidence of the electorate
and have the privilege of being elected on May 1st, I intend to be an
accessible, committed and hard working Councillor.
Pat Wynne (Con)
 I
have a background of public service in local government and community
activities most recently as Chair of Durham Rural Community Council and
was also Chairman of an NHS trust for 7 years. I particularly enjoyed
being a parish councillor in Bearpark and played an active role in the
village. I now live in the centre of Durham City. I am concerned about
the over development of Durham and especially the amount of building on
green spaces and the filling in of every vacant piece of land. If elected
I would fight strongly and vigorously to ensure that Durham City maintained
its traditions and heritage within the new unitary authority.
GILESGATE
Henry William Cartwright (Con)
Pat Conway (Lab)
 I
have lived in Gilesgate Moor for nearly 30 years, with my family, and
my children attended local schools. I am a long time governor of Belmont
Infant School and St Joseph’s Primary, where I am chair. I have previously
been on Belmont Parish Council and the City Council. With Peter Mitchell,
I am standing on a programme to ensure the area is well represented on
the County Council, so we get the investment we need, for instance, in
better roads and pavements, cleaner streets and footpaths, better parks
and improved traffic management as roads become busier than ever.
Ed Hastie (Con)
Kevin Lloyd (BNP)
Peter James Mitchell (Lab)
 I
live locally in Annand Road and serve as a school governor at Gilesgate
Sports College and Laurel Avenue Primary School. I am also chair of the
Gilesgate Youth and Community Association and take a keen interest in
youth work in the area. I am also a trustee for 3 local community groups.
Pat Conway and I are standing to ensure our area gets the best deal in
the Council. We both have experience delivering for our local area and
will continue to do so on issues like community safety, activities for
children and young people and affordable housing.
Dennis James Southwell (Lib Dem)
 I
have lived in the Gilesgate ward since 1967. At present I am a County,
City and Parish Councillor for the area. I also represent the County Council
on the Police Authority. I am the cabinet member for Finance at the City
Council and a Director of Durham Villages Regeneration Company which is
financing the new swimming pool. Other directorships include the Citizen's
Advice Bureau, Sherburn Road Community Action Party for Pelaw View Centre.
Local education is very important to me and I am governor at three local
schools. If elected I will continue working hard, serving residents of
the area and ensuring it becomes an even better and safer place to live
and work.
Les Thomson (Lib Dem)
 Les
has lived in Gilesgate Moor with his wife since 1967. He is a volunteer
and Trustee at St. Cuthberts Hospice and a Governor at Gilesgate Primary
School and Gilesgate Sports College & 6th Form Centre. He is a City
Councillor and is Portfolio Holder for Communities, also a Belmont Parish
Councillor. As a Councillor he has been involved in improving Kepier Woods
Picnic area, playground facilities at Moorfield and Cheveley Park, and
the lane behind Willowtree Avenue. Passionate about Durham City, Les is
always available to residents and is dedicated to improving the quality
of life in this area.
Robert West (Durham TA)
 "I
was born and raised in Gilesgate and have lived here for over fifty years.
I am married to Ann with one son Philip. The people of Durham have been
sold short as a result of the party politics that dominate local Government.
If elected onto the Unitary Authority, I will always try to ensure a fair
deal for you along with higher quality public services. Durham is a fantastic
city that deserves better. The people deserve higher standards and on
May 1st 2008, you can make your voice heard by voting DTA. Your views
represented and respected, always."
NEVILLES CROSS
Christopher Martin John Allen (Ind)
Stephen James Ashfield (Ind)
 I
live in Neville's Cross and have a business within Durham. I love the
North East and in particular am very proud to live in Durham. I have two
young children which is a strong influence upon my drive to ensure that
our community remains one that is safe and desirable to live in. My background
is within education; I am a qualified teacher, although I also have a
Masters Degree in Environmental Management.
Nicola Clare Heaton (Lab)
 I
came to Durham to attend University and I now live and work locally. If
elected I would like to develop links between the University community
and other residents. If elected I would work with residents and the council
to deliver more community facilities in the area. I would especially like
to see more facilities for young people. If elected I would defend Durham's
green spaces and ensure the city's heritage is protected.
Grenville Holland (Lib Dem)
 The
challenge facing the new Unitary Council is that it must:
Allocate our fair share of the annual council tax to the City and ensure
that it is not redistributed elsewhere in the county.
Improve services to our residents at no extra cost.
Protect the heritage of our City and ensure that its traditions are preserved.
Maintain our many recreational facilities, particularly the Gala Theatre
and new swimming pool.
Support our flourishing tourist industry and bring vision to our cultural
activities.
Greatly improve our streets and pavements and ensure the city is policed
effectively.
Work closely with a new Town Council.
Nigel Martin (Lib Dem)
 The
new council must connect effectively with residents locally, embed environmental
sustainability into council policy, and deal more effectively with developing
the County economically. Durham City needs a Town Council to bridge the
gap between neighbourhoods and County Hall. The County under Labour has
failed to act effectively on climate change. This must now be a priority.
Labour in County Durham has decimated youth services. We will reverse
this to combat anti-social behaviour and give our young people the aspiration
and skills for work. Locally, I will continue vigorously to oppose the
development of Mount Oswald.
Jonathan George Alfred Roberts (Lab)
 I
am committed to better facilities for children and young people. I campaigned
successfully for Durham Johnston to be rebuilt. I want to see facilities
in Durham city for young people that are not focused on drinking:
* Improved buildings for existing youth organisations
* New town centre buildings for live music.
I want an effective economy for Durham that makes the best opportunities
for us all. I have run a small business and know the benefits of Gordon
Brown's economic leadership. I like the green city of Durham and want
transport and refuse collection improved to make it greener.
Carolyn Smith (Con)
A new authority, a new direction. Vote Conservative for your voice in
the establishment of the Unitary Council. I have had a long association
with Durham, beginning in the late 70,s and now as a resident care deeply
about the County, wishing to safeguard it's green areas and stop over
development. Having worked in education for over 30 years, have studied
a post graduate Educational Management course, am a trained LEA Governor
and a Mentor to young offenders, I have a great interest in improving
education and crime prevention. Have your say vote Conservative vote Carolyn
Smith.
Michael Smith (Con)
Neville's Cross residents pay excessive Council Tax bills, which are among
the highest in the County. I will campaign to provide quality services
at a price residents can afford. I am committed to achieving a greener
Durham to safeguard our environment and heritage. From the outset I have
campaigned against the proposed development of Mount Oswald Golf Club.
Having lived in the Neville's Cross Ward for the last 28 years I know
at first hand the problems that need to be addressed. I will work to achieve
solutions to justified complaints about traffic "rat-runs",
over development and lack of amenities for younger people.
NEWTON HALL
Sheila Emmas-Williams (Lab)
 I
have lived in Newton Hall for the past 31 years with my husband Roland.
I have two daughters who attended local schools and who were involved
in local youth organisations so I understand the needs of families in
the area well. I have also been involved in the local community particularly
with Durham Trinity School, a school for children with special needs,
where for several years I have helped to raise funds.
Helena Sophia Ferreira (Lab)
 I
am currently a student studying at Durham University. If I was elected
as the local Councillor I would work hard to try to foster greater understand
of the needs of students and local residents when decisions are being
made about Durham City. As one of the youngest candidates standing in
this year’s elections I would make the development of improvements for
young people a priority so there is more to do. The Labour government
has created the Youth Services Fund and I would work with local young
people to work out how this money can be used to help.
Amanda Jayne Hopgood (Lib Dem)
 I
was born in Durham and raised on Newton Hall attending Finchale Primary
School and later Framwellgate Moor Comprehensive. I have been married
for 15 years and our children now attend Finchale where I am a parent
governor. I am actively involved in the local community as Secretary for
Newton Hall Community Centre and have had the honour of being a City Councillor
for the last 3 years representing Newton Hall North. I pride myself in
working as part of a team and in that vain will continue to work to improve
the standards and environment within which we live.
K Pierre Kirk (Con)
Helen Dorothy Osborn (Con)
Mamie Simmons (Lib Dem)
 I
have lived in Newton Hall for over 30 years and my son was a pupil at
Framwellgate Moor Comprehensive. During my career I worked as a teacher
and since retiring I have been a City Councillor for 9 years and a County
Councillor for the past 3. As County Councillor I serve on the Permanent
Fostering Panel and I am a member Champion for Equality and Diversity
on the Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, I have been an LEA
Governor of Newton Hall Infants School and Chairperson on Newton Hall
Community Centre for several years.
Philip Wolstenholme (Ind)
 I
have a lot of experience by being a councillor for many years and helping
people with their problems. I think that it will be of great benefit by
me being independent because I will not be swayed by any party loyalty
and will be able to give my all to Newton Hall. This will be of great
importance because of the size of the new unitary authority.My clear vision
for Newton Hall is for more bus shelters, better bus services, more parking
places, a play area for children, improved green open spaces and repairs
to pavements and roads.
SHERBURN
Lesley Ann Broughton (Lab)
 I
was very proud to be selected as a Labour candidate for these elections.
I was born and have always lived in Durham, I worked in Local Government
for twelve years and was elected as the youngest Branch Secretary of unison
in the country at the age of 19. I have lived with my family in Pittington
for 20 years,served as a Governor and now Chair of Governors at Pittington
Primary School as well as representing my community for the last five
years as a Parish Councillor. These elections give Durham an opportunity
to excel in providing a quality service at a community level.
Michael Fishwick (Con)
 Along
with Nick Hallett, I am Conservative candidate for Sherburn Division offering
a real change. The new council needs to be made up of a coalition of all
parties and none. Local Conservatives will work to get more police on
the beat and help communities take back their streets. We will work to
provide activities for young people which can build confidence and self
worth so that they aspire to the best in life. And we’ll fight to protect
our green spaces from over development because the beauty of our environment
and the sustainability of our communities are so important.
Nick Hallett (Con)
Raymond Pye (Lab)
 As
the County Councillor for the Sherburn Division for the last seven years,
I have been fully supported of a new Unitary Authority from the beginning.
My pledges to the local community are:
* To be the Community Champion
* To promote the best education for every child in County Durham
* To continue to support the elderly and vulnerable in the community
* To give value for money and effective services
* To give local people a major say in what is happening in their communities
by promoting "Area Action Partnerships"
* To continue to be involved with a 4 Star Council
I ask for the communities support to continue the work already started.
Jo Smith (Green Party)
Maureen Wood (Lib Dem)
 Maureen
lives in Sherburn Village with her family. She is a Parish Councillor
and Chair of the over 60s Luncheon Club. She said, "I realised when
I became a parish councillor that it was possible to make a difference.
I want to work for all the villages in this division to make sure everyone
is represented."
Maureen is also a member of the tenants panel and is keen to make sure
that council tenants are represented on the new council and have a say
in the management of their houses. She is also interested in making sure
older people are looked after in our communities.
Carol Ann Woods (Lib Dem)
 Carol
Woods is a well known local campaigner and Deputy Leader of Durham City
Council. She is part of the Lib Dem team that has turned Durham round.
She says "I hope that I will have the opportunity to continue working
for Durham and our villages on the new unitary council. Like many residents
I don't think a giant council is a good idea, but that makes it all the
more important that we have Councillors who will stand up for local people.
I want to work for our villages to make sure that everyone’s voice is
heard and you get what you want not what a giant council thinks you want."
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