Following the resignation, and subsequent arrest, of Lib Dem Councillor Alan Salter, a by-election has been called for the Carshalton Central ward, which will be held on Thursday 28th July 2016.
The Sutton Borough Conservative Federation yesterday (Saturday 25th June 2016) selected Melissa Pearce as their candidate.
Melissa lives in Carshalton with her husband and two young children. She is an Area Manager for a global civil engineering professional body, and has been inspired to become a Councillor by the passion and dedication of the volunteers that she manages. She is an active member of the local community as a governor at the Harris Junior Academy. As well as her day job, she helps out the Parent Teacher Association at her children’s school, whenever possible, and assists with the children’s liturgy at church.
Melissa said: “I am delighted to have been chosen as the Conservative Candidate for the Carshalton Central By-Election. I have become increasingly concerned by the lack of accountability of decisions taken by the Lib Dem Council; not least the selling of the Lodge in Carshalton Central for £1m under the estimated market value, at a time when cuts are being made to services.
“I want to be a strong voice for residents in Carshalton Central. I will stand up for their views and hold this Council to account.”
Councillor Tim Crowley, Leader of the Conservative Group on Sutton Council, said: “Melissa will make a great councillor and I can’t wait to have her on my team.
“Residents have a choice between a 44th Lib Dem councillor whipped to support unpopular local decisions such as the incinerator or the dodgy sale of the Lodge, or a new Conservative councillor who will stand up for residents.”