On 7th May voters will be asked to turn out to elect their Member of Parliament as well as their local representatives to Cheshire East Council and Alderley Edge Parish Council.
In the run up to the May local elections, the Cheshire Independent Network (CIN) is encouraging individuals to stand for election to represent their local communities and will be running a workshop for people considering standing as independent candidates.
The CIN is a non-profit, volunteer run organisation that promotes and supports independent candidates and non-party politicians across Cheshire.
CIN chair and Middlewich town councillor Bernice Walmsley has been involved with the network since it was founded in 2011.
She said "The CIN supports individuals standing in elections by providing advice, expertise, and practical help.
"Independent politicians are an impassioned alternative to the status quo and often make the most credible and effective local candidates. Instead of representing a party, independents represent their electorate which means you can trust them to work hard for you."
Bernice will be one of the key speakers at the workshop, alongside Cheshire East councillors Paul Edwards and Brendan Murphy.
She continued "As the network comprises a range of current and former councillors as well as members of the public who are interested in local democracy but don't support any of the national political parties, we have a lot of experience and encouragement to share with individuals who want to get involved with their local councils but are unsure where to start."
The workshop will provide an insight into the work of a councillor, including: what it entails; the commitment required; the rules and regulations relating to standing as a candidate, and how to mount a successful campaign.
The workshop will be held on Saturday 31st January 2015 from 9.30pm until 1pm at The Wych Centre, Civic Way, Middlewich, Cheshire, CW10 9BX. It will be followed by a light buffet lunch and networking opportunity.
Tickets cost £5, which is payable on the door. To reserve your place call 07802 200 494 or 01625 404363, or email [email protected].
Photo: Bernice Walmsley, chair of the Cheshire Independent Network.
