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Graeme is a doer who loves being on people’s doorsteps and says he is plugged into the area he is representing. Growing up in an area similar to Bridgewater, he lived on a farming estate where his dad was a gamekeeper, so he understands issues that matter to people in rural areas.
“My dad went through the Second World War and he taught me standards such as being honest. polite and having integrity even throughout adverse times. With the help of my mother we created a new life for ourselves which gave me a sense of the importance of being resourceful.”
Graeme said losing his father when he was just 13 inspired him to become a strong, hardworking and caring person. Describing himself as a retired old-fashioned bank manager he said he is a pragmatic front-of-house man with an understanding of small businesses and urban concerns from time living in London. He has put those skills into effect in his previous role within local government. “I have been a district councillor in Dacorum for 14 years. Nothing beats the feeling of enabling people to live their lives fully and to love the environment in which they live, work and/or raise their families. I think we are at a time now when pulling together and being positive about our country is critical. We live in one of the greatest nations in the world and I think sometimes we should be more proud of our successes and what we have given to others.”
Graeme said what he thinks matters to local people is having a decent standard of living where they feel safe, sending their children to good schools which enable them to be the best version of themselves and ensuring that our most vulnerable members of society are looked after. “Farming is a key issue for the residents of Bridgewater. I’ve been listening to the local community and visited the farmers’ market and am committed to helping their voices be heard. With 142km of roads, public transport is a problem here. We need to enhance our bus service to ensure people without cars can enjoy access to all the lovely places and what they have to offer.”
When not knocking on doors, you can find Graeme cycling around Ashridge: “Having such a stunning forest right on our doorstep is a wonderful resource. I love getting out in the fresh air. It allows me to drop into The Bakehouse at Ashridge for a well-earned bacon roll and cup of tea.”
Graeme is also passionate about the protection of green spaces and ensuring the conservation of wildlife, and recently bought a vinyl record player which helps him to relax. He is currently reading Elizabeth by Gyles Brandreth.
