I WOULD like to thank all the people of Stroud Central who voted for me in the county election, and I am of course delighted to have been elected.

During the campaign I had the opportunity to talk to people people of all ages and with differing political opinions.

Despite these differences people were united in their concerns about health and social care, for education and early years services.

Road safety and the worsening pothole situation also continue to be serious issues that affect us all.

People also expressed pride about Stroud’s considerable achievements – our new re-cycling system is proving so successful at 60 per cent that we hope it can be a model for the rest of the county.

Similarly, my predecessor Sarah Lunnon’s initiatives on natural flood management have already been widely adopted elsewhere.

There is much to be done and I will try to work across political boundaries in the interests of our wonderful town and vibrant community.

Above all I’ll be continuing the fight for transparency in decision-making at the county council.

I am fortunate to be working with another Green, Cllr Rachel Smith (Minchinhampton) also newly elected and together we’ll make sure you are kept informed about our challenges and successes.

Thank you again for your confidence in voting for me,

Eva Ward

Gloucestershire County councillor Stroud Central division Stroud