JESS McQuail has been co-opted on to Stroud Town Council to represent Valley Ward.

Jess, who works in the charity sector, has lived in the Valley Ward for 13 years and wants to to make Stroud stronger, fairer and more climate friendly.

She said: "I firmly believe that local actions can make a huge difference to the quality of life for local people and am committed to work hard to make Stroud stronger, fairer and more climate friendly.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has fostered incredible levels of social solidarity but has also laid bare the historic and structural inequalities that exist between us. It has seriously impacted our local economy and will continue to do so."

The Labour councillor has been involved in several projects in Gloucestershire including the Gloucestershire Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (GRASAC), the women’s refuge, the anti-incinerator campaign, the Stroud Fringe, the Sub Rooms, and the Stroud Lido/outdoor pool.

She will represent the ward for 10 months until the local elections in May 2021.

There were seven applications, but three people withdrew.

Councillor McQuail said: "I will work with local organisations and people to rebuild the local economy and balance the needs and interests of residents to improve the quality of life for all."