EIGHT candidates are hoping to get your vote to stand to represent Over Ward at the election next month.

Six candidates will be elected when voters go to the polls on May 7.

Peter Coan (Conservative):

"Knutsford needs another five years of Conservative initiative and management to continue taking our town forward. We need councillors who will listen to, and properly represent you, the elector.

"I am standing again as a conservative Knutsford Town Councillor - to ensure that your views are fully heard, and acted upon! I am employed in, educated in, a lifelong resident of, and passionate about Knutsford.

"With your help, we can ensure, that as an experienced Councillor I can continue to serve you. With Conservatives at the helm we can be confident that over the next five years Knutsford will continue to go from strength to strength."

Yvonne Bancroft (Independent):

"I have lived in Over Ward for 16 years and know many of you as friends and neighbours.

"Having represented you for the past two years as an Independent Councillor, I have worked hard and spoken out on your behalf, raising the questions you would like answered.

"I know how frustrated many of you are with the service provision from Cheshire East.

"I have spoken up about; the cemetery, roads and pavements, green bin collection, Knutsford’s heritage and character, our green spaces, the war memorial, planning and our finances.

"I listen to you and speak up for you."

Jonathan Farber (Conservative):

"Having lived in Knutsford for 16 years and 8 years prior in Mobberley, I have a strong sense of place with local businesses and our community. As a business person, I want to add greater commercial focus to the town council and increase support for social projects whilst ensuring their long term sustainability.

"I'm a strong believer in our youth and if elected, I want to dedicate my time by supporting their needs, aspirations, personal and business goals. I have always been a strong advocate of local commerce and prosperity and wish to underpin this as a councillor."

Andrew Malloy (Independent):

"Over the last four years, I’ve worked hard for the residents of Knutsford and Over Ward in particular, putting you first.

"I’ve been involved in a large number of community events, groups and initiatives. Only by speaking to and meeting with you, can councillors represent you in the way you want.

"With the use of social media, email and phone, I have been able to act on the issues which matter to you quickly. If you vote for me, I will continue to work hard for you to ensure the best is achieved for Knutsford and Over Ward."

Neil Forbes (Conservative):

"Knutsford resident for 24 years, married to Jacquelyn who has lived here since childhood. I have been a Town Councillor for the last eight years.

"If I am re-elected in Over Ward, I am keen to represent the views of all residents.

"Have been at the forefront of getting the transfer of the town’s assets back to local ownership and control, raising standards and ensuring Knutsford remains a town to be proud of.

"There is more to do, example, local small play areas for children and small parks to relax in for others and I would feel honoured to continue to be chosen to play a part in it."

Jane Froehlich (Conservative):

"Having lived in the Knutsford area for 15 years, I have become very attached to this special town.

"I run my own successful business as a language teacher. Previously I worked as an International Marketing Manager in leading companies gaining a deep understanding of cultural differences, acquiring valuable experience in understanding different viewpoints and in problem solving.

"Working for 10 years for a leading market research company has given me a solid understanding and insight into local concerns and issues. I now feel the time is right for me to give something back and to use my experience to serve the local community."

Julian Goodrich (Conservative):

"During my first term as one of your Over Ward councillors, I’ve been involved with various committees and projects.

"This includes the Knutsford Cemetery Working Group, which has worked hard to improve the cemetery. Work has just begun to fix and restore the monuments that have fallen or been laid down over the years.

"I have also worked with the Citizen’s Advice Bureau to maintain the service in Knutsford so it can continue to help all Knutsford residents who may require their invaluable expertise.

"If re-elected I would continue to work hard to develop Knutsford for both its residents and visitors."

Mike Houghton (Conservative):

"I have been a town councillor for the past four years serving the ward of Bexton.

"I now wish to bring my experience to Over Ward where I believe I can make a significant difference to the day-to-day issues that affect people at a local level - from ensuring a safe environment for children to play and commute to school through to improving health and social care facilities.

"I have lived in Knutsford for more than 17 years with my wife and three children and I am extremely passionate about maintaining the integrity of our unique and wonderful town."