FORMER INDEPENDENT COUNCILLOR JOINS LIB DEMS

10.54.32am GMT Thu 9th Aug 2007

Stephen Gilbert welcomes Sandra Heyward to the Lib Dems

A former Independent Councillor on Restormel Borough Council has become the latest local politician to back Liberal Democrat Stephen Gilbert to be the next MP for St Austell & Newquay.

Sandra Heyward has lived in St Austell since 1969 and represented the town's Gover ward from 2003 to 2007.

Explaining her shift to the Liberal Democrats, Ms Heyward said:

"I know that Stephen will follow in the tradition of David Penhaligon and Matthew Taylor and stand-up for local people regardless of party politics."

Having been a member of Restormel's Licensing Committee, Ms Heyward has dealt with many complaints from residents about nuisance behaviour.

She added: "When I was a Councillor I was particularly concerned about making sure there is a balance in the night-time economy and I know that Stephen is committed to ensuring residents do not have to put up with anti-social behaviour outside our pubs and nightclubs."

Welcoming Ms Heyward to the Liberal Democrats, Parliamentary Candidate Stephen Gilbert commented:

"Sandra is a committed campaigner has always spoken out on important issues facing the Borough - tackling anti-social behaviour and protecting the beautiful Gover Valley. I'm delighted to welcome her to the Party, and I am very pleased to have her support."