I have always been interested in my local community and indeed my worldwide community. I believe that we should help those less able than ourselves and where there is a desperate need, we should address that need swiftly.

However, where possible I do believe that the effort of the individual is important so that it is also for us to try to facilitate self- help, rather than simply taking a view that State help is there so it is no longer our concern. In this way, we encourage individuals and societies to respond and encourage them to develop themselves and for their own benefit and reward.

If we care about our communities, we want to do something about them to try and make them better both for society at large but also in being able to help individuals with their problems. Having opportunity to influence legislation and moral direction by being a Member of Parliament is an awesome responsibility. Rather than criticise politicians and the negatives we see, I have chosen to raise my head above the parapet to improve our collective lot. Some people believe that they should not become involved in politics yet for me, it is imperative that I have the strength of a faith behind me to give me direction and to be able to provide influence to governments of the day.

The economic principles of freedom and enterprise make the Conservative Party the natural choice for me and support of the individual in his endeavours against an overbearing State is where my principles lie. Likewise, I believe in support for small institutions and voluntary groups, finding me most at home in the Conservative Party as opposed to a grand Socialist vision of State involvement and control in almost every aspect of our lives and taxation at such oppressive levels that enterprise, employment and initiative are stifled.

I believe our traditions, history, experience and instincts together give testament to a belief that individual effort and responsibility for our actions provide the best way to improve our collective situation, helping to make the private sector able to generate enough wealth to fund all of the public commitments we have.

I have a strong belief in family life and traditional values. I am passionate about North Devon, our beautiful countryside and the heritage of this area, its ways and people.

I have been campaigning on many issues, NHS care costs for the elderly, affordable housing and the traffic problems in Braunton to name but a few!