I’ve lived in Dumbarton almost all my life. I’m married and have three daughters. My first job was working in Langlands, my dad’s shop, in what was then a busy Dumbarton High Street.

Undoubtedly since then there have been many changes to the town, some welcome, others not so positive. I believe our area has a lot to offer; if elected I would work hard to ensure our town makes the most of its great potential.

For the past 15 years I’ve worked for West Dunbartonshire Council firstly within housing and latterly within roads, working mainly in and around our schools. 

I’ve seen first-hand the challenges faced by local government, the restructures caused by Westminster’s austerity agenda and the impact of the changes on the services our council can provide to local residents. 

Many residents are not only users of council services but also employees of the council. Therefore these changes impact many local people on two levels. 

I firmly believe that we need to consult with residents and council staff, to communicate clearly and to truly listen to them.

Some of the issues that have arisen locally such as the teachers strike have been through lack of consultation. 

I want to make sure we get decisions right first time, that’s why I’m standing for the SNP alongside Iain McLaren. 

I want to make sure that we act positively to enhance our local communities and to improve the life chances of all our residents. Vote positively on May 4.