Following the resignation of Simon Cross from Test Valley Borough Council due to ill health, the Test Valley Borough Liberal Democrats have selected Geoff Cooper to fight the resulting by-election.

Geoff, who grew up in the area and now lives locally with his young family, currently works as a commercial manager for an international company with responsibilities across both UK and European markets. He is standing in this election as he wants to become a part of the team fighting for the North Baddesley community.

Mr Cooper said: "Both locally and nationally, I have seen the damage caused by misguided Conservative policies and individual ambition. As I've been knocking on doors and listening to the residents in North Baddesley, the constant message I'm hearing is that people have had enough of it.

"This by-election is a chance to send a message to the Conservative government that we will not be taken for granted."

READ MORE: Test Valley Borough Councillor Simon Cross steps down over health

Celia Dowden, leader of the Liberal Democrat group on Test Valley Borough Council, said: "When I first met Geoff I immediately knew that he would make a great councillor. Geoff grew up within a background of local government. His father has been a Romsey Borough and County councillor for more than 30 years.

"Geoff fully understands the role of a councillor and is ready to give his commitment to the residents of North Baddesley. He is friendly and approachable and caring, and exceptionally hard-working. Exactly the sort of values we try and uphold as your councillors in North Baddesley.

"This election will be between Geoff Cooper and the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives. Labour didn't even stand a candidate last time - they know they can't win.

SEE ALSO: Lib Dem proposal for £1M climate emergency pot is shot down by council

"A Vote for Geoff Cooper will ensure the hard-working Lib Dem team continues to be the strong united voice for North Baddesley."

Simon Cross stepped down from his role earlier this month.

To view the vacancy notice and keep up-to-date with by-election information visit: https://www.testvalley.gov.uk/aboutyourcouncil/localdemocracy/elections/notice-of-vacancy-north-baddesley-ward

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