Meet the candidates for the Primrose ward in the South Tyneside Council elections on May 6
Each one has been given the opportunity to tell readers why they’re running for a seat on the borough council and why people should vote for them.
Here’s what candidates standing in the Primrose ward have to say.
Walter Armstrong (Conservative Party)
(No picture supplied)
My name is Walter Armstrong. I’m delighted to be standing as the Conservative Party candidate for Primrose, the ward in which I live.
South Tyneside Council needs a strong and effective opposition that can provide scrutiny to Labour’s grip of our council.
My priority will be ensuring our town centre is more business friendly.
I would start by working hard to increase the amount of free parking in our town centre.
If elected, I would be a strong voice for the ward and work hard for the residents.
As an opposition councillor, I would also work hard to make sure council money is well spent.
1. Ken Stephenson (Labour Party)
I am delighted to have been selected by the Labour Party to stand in the Primrose ward in the upcoming local government elections. I served as your councillor from 2010 until 2019 and was involved in securing many improvements in the area. I am vice chairman of the Jarrow Festival Committee and work with the Jarrow Big Local. As a result of this experience I believe I have the ability and drive to represent your views and speak up on your behalf in the council chamber and ensure Primrose receives its fair share of council resources to improve your neighbourhood. Photo: Ken Stephenson (Labour Party)
2. David Kennedy (Independent)
I’ve lived in Jarrow most of my life aside from a time in Washington in the 1980s. I now live in Primrose with my wife of 25 years and family. I was a partner at Bede Taxis for 20 years and I’m currently employed in the transport industry. I was a governor at St Mary’s Primary School, Jarrow and a founder member of the Primrose Parks Alliance and I still volunteer whenever possible. I believe in transparency within local government and I’m unhappy with the way our council has conducted itself lately and feel that we have not been properly represented. My priorities are to work towards better roads, pavements and parking and improvements to council housing. I would like to provide social opportunities for the youth and the elderly which we have lost and to take on board any issues and concerns raised by the residents of this ward. Photo: David Kennedy (Independent)
3. Kevin Alderson (Green Party)
I’m a reflexologist and have my clinic at Jarrow Civic Hall on Ellison Street. I believe it is important to support local businesses so I often frequent the cafes and shops in town. I am standing for Primrose as I believe there should be a Green voice representing the ward within the council. Apart from standing up for the environment, I will endeavour to scrutinise the proposals and behaviour of the ruling party to ensure that they deliver value for money for ward residents, and that they act in accordance with local government rules and conduct at all times. Photo: Kevin Alderson (Green Party)