We invited each by-election candidate to provide a 200-word first-person profile.
No particular format was specified, but we suggested covering the following aspects:
- Something about your background and relevant experience
- Your thoughts on issues affecting Bradley Stoke
- What you hope to achieve should you be elected
From an article in the May 2021 issue of the Bradley Stoke Journal magazine (read it online).
Edward He (Conservative)
I live in Bradley Stoke South ward and am a local chartered engineer, having worked in R&D, higher education, UK steel industry, oil & gas and aerospace sectors.
I am a passionate community champion and currently serve as a local STEM ambassador, a university career mentor and a trustee for a cancer support charity.
The Conservative Bradley Stoke Town Council has one of the lowest council tax precepts in South Gloucestershire. I will fight to keep your council tax low!
Through my industrial links and experience, I am keen to facilitate better planning and budgeting for road and infrastructure projects. I also hope that my engineering skills will help our local schools and education providers in promoting STEM subjects.
I want to be a strong voice and campaigner for you and do more for our community.
I hope that I receive your support for this election. Thank you!
Dayley Lawrence (Labour)
I am a resident of Bradley Stoke South Ward and live on Champs Sur Marne. I am from Bristol and grew up in Easton. I am from a single parent family and grew up with the help of the welfare system. My great grandfather lived in Woodlands Park prior to Bradley Stoke being built. I work as a postman at Patchway delivery office and deliver in Bradley Stoke currently around ‘the herbs’ area.
I worked in the NHS for over 13 years in facilities on the frontline of our NHS. I was a trade union branch secretary working on staff engagement and helping members in need. I feel strongly about equalities, I have been involved with LGBTQ+, disability and BME groups and campaigns. I understand that some people in our community need support more than others and hope that as a councillor I can stand up for the most vulnerable in our community. It’s important that we represent everyone in our community.
The by-election was called following the stepping down of a Tory councillor after only eight months in the job. Labour did not trigger this election, but I welcome the opportunity for residents to choose who represents them.