THE vacant Nether Ward seat is set to be filled in Knutsford Town Council’s upcoming by-election and the Guardian has invited the three candidates standing explain why residents should vote for them.

Christopher Gray - Conservative

Knutsford is a special town, its people are warm, the facilities are excellent for its size, whilst its history is expressed in the attractiveness of its townscape.

There is much, however, to be done to solve the conflict with the narrow streets filled with people, prams and traffic. With 30 years experience of town planning and development matters, I feel that I can assist your town council in achieving significant improvements to the town centre. This will enhance its attractiveness and increase trade for the valuable businesses located within it.

On a personal note, I am married with two grown up children, and Christine and I have been foster parents to two teenagers.

Whilst I currently have an education and childcare business for pre-school children, I am now able to devote the time and the energy to representing the residents of Nether Ward. I shall do my best, not only for them, but for all Knutsford residents, as part of your team of local councillors.

Julie Tempest - Independent

As a Nether Ward resident and businesswoman for over 25 years, I have first-hand knowledge of community and business needs and the issues that affect us; from controversial moves to run a commercial market on the Heath, to the state of King Street.

I'm a do-er; I’m an active member of Promote Knutsford Forum, because I’m passionate about promoting the town; I have an excellent understanding of the planning process so I’m involved with the Town Plan Group on the King Street enhancement scheme; and I help organise the Knutsford Promenades because community events are vital for the town.

My priority will be to attend full council meetings and to ensure residents' views and needs are met – in September, just six of the town’s 15 members attended.

The council’s budget is £225k and it is now responsible for more buildings. I believe my Independent, non-party political input can deliver real, value-for-money benefits. That’s why I’m standing as the Independent candidate.

Graeme Webster - Labour

I attended Knutsford High School and was a sergeant in the Air Cadets before university, now living in Knutsford again with family living in the town and in Nether Ward particularly.

I have a law degree and practiced welfare law with the Citizens Advice Bureau, providing experience with interviewing; understanding client’s needs and providing advice for people’s issues; I worked in Student Finance and I am now working with charities providing training in disability rights. Recently, for example, I was involved in a campaign to extend access to voting opportunities for voters with Learning Disabilities, I am the Tatton Constituency Labour Party Disability Officer.

My aim is to ensure that all the various communities in Knutsford have a voice in the town council and to help the community with issues that really matter to them.

My personal interests include history, archaeology, Shakespearean theatre and going to the gym when time and motivation allows.

______________________________________________________________________________ The election, called following the death of Clr Clive Nicholson, will take place on Thursday November 13. For more information on how to vote , visit cheshireeast.gov.uk.