Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Good information, but a tad late.
The problem is that the two major parties in Wiltshire decided long ago who was going to contest the unitary council election in June, and most, if not all of them, will be existing district or county councillors. I'm told that some of the selection meetings became very heated as sitting councillors were de-selected by their political groups.

However, there is still a way to become a councillor on the new council - stand as an Independent!

With a new council being formed now would be a great time to increase the number of Independent councillors in Wiltshire. We are not a dying breed; on Kennet District Council there are more Independent councillors than there are Lib Dems.

If you want any information please contact me and I can give you advice and put you in touch with the Independent office at the Local Government Association.

One word of caution however. A 'serious' campaign will cost you anything between £200 and £600 and this money is NOT recoverable. Win or lose it comes out of your pocket, there is no subsidy or scheme of reimbursement. However, if elected you will be entitled to an allowance as a Wiltshire Councillor.