I WAS born in South-East England but have now been living in Monmouthshire for nearly 30 years.

I originally moved to the area to teach in a local Comprehensive school and have taught languages in a variety of schools as well as in further education.

I have two adult children currently at university and so you won’t be surprised to hear that education is one of the issues that concerns me most.

I love living in Monmouthshire, with its beautiful countryside and attractive small towns and I believe it’s important to preserve all the qualities that make it such an attractive area in which to live.

However, I also believe that young people and people from all backgrounds have a right to live here and so I am in favour of increasing access to housing for people who can’t afford Monmouthshire prices.

For some years, I was the main carer for an elderly relative and I am passionate about fighting for easier access for older or disabled people to a decent standard of care.

For the last four years, I have been working for a Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly Member for South Wales East as a Caseworker, dealing with all sorts of issues from benefits to the NHS to public transport.

I also work as a Media Analyst, which has given me insight into international businesses such as the pharmaceutical industry, the food industry and banking.

In my leisure time, I enjoy walking, swimming, learning languages and European travel. I love music of many different kinds, enjoy singing and belong to a local choral society. I am also an active member of my local Methodist church.

I feel that this varied experience has equipped me to represent people from all backgrounds and my ambition in becoming involved in politics is to change people’s lives for the better.

I have plenty of energy and would guarantee to work hard if elected to represent the people of Monmouthshire.