Voices of Change: Meet the Candidates Shaping Oxfordshire's Future

In an inspiring look at the upcoming Oxfordshire County Council election, six candidates reveal their motivations for entering local politics, reflecting a deep commitment to their communities.

Mark Lygo, a seasoned county councillor, emphasizes that real change is a gradual process. Despite moments of doubt, he finds satisfaction in having positively impacted lives, motivating him to persist amid challenges.

Emma Markham, representing the Green party in Shrivenham, shares her commitment to the people and community, driven by her work in genetics and deep community involvement.

Emily Scaysbrook, the Independent candidate for Parks, speaks passionately about her lifelong connection to the city, aiming to combat unfairness in local governance as a co-owner of a local shop.

Katherine Miles, from the Liberal Democrats, portrays a resilient spirit, hoping to foster consensus while sharing her personal journey through pregnancy loss, which fuels her desire to create a better community.

David Rogers, the Conservative candidate for Chipping Norton, recounts how a personal family crisis—a snowstorm preventing an ambulance from reaching his son—prompted him to take action by joining local politics, leading to the establishment of a snow warden scheme.

Lastly, Hao Du, the Reform UK candidate for Didcot South, expresses a heartfelt desire to ensure that his newborn daughter grows up in a safer, greener world, highlighting the responsibility of parents in shaping future generations.

The election, set for May 1, marks a pivotal moment with upcoming local government reorganization. These candidates, along with their fellow competitors, represent a diverse array of voices dedicated to addressing local issues and improving community welfare. Their varied backgrounds paint a rich tapestry of motivations, underscoring the importance of local governance in creating impactful change.