Which candidates are standing in the Norfolk County Council elections and who should you vote for?

Norfolk County Council. County Hall. Photo : Steve Adams (Image: Archant)

All 84 divisions are up for grabs and the political balance at County Hall is on a knife edge.

The Conservatives are currently in control, with 42 councillors. Labour have 14 Labour, UKIP and independent 11, 10 Liberal Democrats, three Greens, three non-aligned and one vacancy.

We asked all the candidates to tell voters why they deserve your vote in the election. This is what they had to say...

BRECKLAND

Attleborough (CONS held)

Christopher MACKINNON (Lib Dem)

Attleborough candidates: Rhodri Oliver (Conservative) and Phil Spiby (Labour). Christopher McKinnon (Liberal Democrat not pictured) Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party. (Image: courtesy: of Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party.)

No details provided

Rhodri OLIVER (Conservative)

'I am your candidate for Attleborough with the most experience in local government having served for six years. There are three key issues which matter to me most:

'First, I want to help bring in changes that improve the terrible traffic situation in our town through improvements to our highways infrastructure and eventually a ban on HGVs going through the town.

Dereham North candidates (L-R): Ann Bowyer - Green Party, Eriend Watson - Liberal Democrats, Liz Hunton - Labour Party and William Richmond - Conservatives. Pictures: courtesy of Green Party, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of Green Party, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives)

'Secondly, I want to introduce a trial on our Queen's Square car park which will stop people parking there all day and preventing people from shopping in our town. By keeping it free but restricting how long you can park there to two or three hours we can help our local businesses.

'Thirdly I want to secure more funding for our critical social care services which help so many in and around Attleborough. This is a vital service which needs help.

'I hope you will lend me your support.'

Phil SPIBY (Labour)

Dereham South candidates (L-R): Catherine Blaiklock - UKIP, Harry Clarke - Labour Party, Phillip Duigan - Conservatives. Paul Speed - Liberal Democrats not pictured. Pictures: courtesy of UKIP, Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of UKIP, Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives)

'I have lived in Attleborough for 20 years and my children have grown up here. We're facing unprecedented changes as it doubles in size over the next 20 years.

'I love Attleborough but the supporting infrastructure is really creaking! I'm passionate about making it a great place to live.

'I'm on the town council, the Attleborough Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group and GILPIG, the Green Infrastructure and Linear Park Interest Group.

'We need relief roads, new schools, another doctor's surgery, a halfway-house hospital, parks for dog walking and leisure, sports facilities, business parks for in-town employment – the list continues. And that's just locally.

Elmham and Matishall candidates (L-R): Bill Borrett - Conservatives and Richard Scoggins - Liberal Democrats. Rcihard Scoggins - Labour - not pictured. Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats)

'Nationally the whole country's support services have been decimated by the current government – social services, prisons, schools and the NHS. Hardly a day goes by without a story of services approaching breaking point. You need me, someone committed to put this right, at this crucial time for Attleborough.'

Dereham North (CONS held)

Ann BOWYER (Green)

Guiltcross candidates (L-R): Chris Harvey - Labour Party and Stephen Gordon - Liberal Democrats. Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party, Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Labour Party, Liberal Democrats)

'I have been your Green Party town councillor for the past 14 years. I have also had the honour of being a previous Dereham Mayor.

'During that time I have played a key role in: refurbishment of the Memorial Hall; open spaces and Green infrastructure plan; Commons forum; refurbishment of Dereham Windmill and I have also served on a number of other committees.

'I believe we need to: attract new businesses to Dereham; engender a pride in the town by showcasing what Dereham has to offer and improve facilities in the town.

'My main aim is to help make Dereham an attractive place for all. These are challenging times, not only with regard to the economy but also planning.

Mark Kiddle-Morris, Conservative candidate for Necton and Launditch. Pic: Norfolk Conservatives. Not pictured: Joe Sisto - Labour. (Image: Norfolk Conservatives)

'A holistic approach which takes account of housing business/jobs, infrastructure and environmental impact is essential.'

Liz HUNTON (Labour)

'I'm a people person first of all, active in my local church and community campaigns. I've experience in neighbourhood planning and housing issues.

'Important issues for me are proper planning, flooding, transport services, and establishing residents associations.

Swaffham candidates, L-R: Ed Colman, Conservatives, Kate Sayer, Liberal Democrats, Paul Smyth, UKIP, Philip Wagstaff, Labour Party. Photo: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, UKIP and Labour Party (Image: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, UKIP and Labour Party)

'I believe in serving you the residents, and support action to protect valued open spaces such as Neatherd Moor, and play areas. If you want a strong listening voice to get things done, please support me with your vote. Thank you.'

* William RICHMOND (Conservative)

'Elected in May 2013, I have worked tirelessly on behalf of residents in Dereham and Scarning. I have campaigned to achieve County Wildlife Site Status for Neatherd Moor and Etling Green.

'Working with Dereham Town and Scarning Parish Councils, I have secured funding from the county council's Parish Partnership Scheme for local Highway improvements – including traffic calming measures, new footways and bus stop upgrades.

The Brecks candidates, L-R: Brenda Canham, Labour, Fabian Eagle, Conservative, Ian Minto, Liberal Democrats and Sandra Walmsley, Green Party. Photo: Courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and Green Party (Image: Courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and Green Party)

'At County Hall, I have served on the adult social care committee and the environment, transport and development committee. I also represent Breckland on Norfolk's Police and Crime Panel.

'I live on the family farm at East Bilney. I was born and raised in Norfolk, educated at Neatherd High School and Dereham Sixth Form College and then read history at Newcastle University.

'I have helped to fund-raise for various charities including the Royal British Legion and the friends of Dereham Hospital.'

Eriend WATSON (Lib Dem)

Thetford East candidates, L-R: Denis Crawford, UKIP, Mike Brindle, Labour and Roy Brame, Conservatives. Photo: Courtesy of UKIP, Labour Party and Norfolk Conservatives (Image: Courtesy of UKIP, Labour Party and Norfolk Conservatives)

'I am a freelance translator of Norwegian. I have lived in Norfolk for the last three years.

'I am a strong supporter of good education and think it is an investment in our common future. So the county council is an important actor on this.

'Brexit seriously concerns me as it will mean serious cuts in overall expenditure for Norfolk and lower wages with damage to the economic wellbeing of Norfolk people.

'I also want good public transport. This is particularly important in Dereham to make sure that people can make connections with rail services to places outside the county.'

Thetford West candidates, L-R: Jane James, Conservatives, John Newton, UKIP and Terry Jermy, Labour. Photo: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, UKIP and Labour Party (Image: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, UKIP and Labour Party)

Dereham South (UKIP held)

Catherine BLAIKLOCK (UKIP)

'I am a Norfolk self-made businesswoman.

Watton candidates, L-R: Claire Bowes, Conservatives, Timothy Birt, Green Party and Victor Scrivens, Liberal Democrats. Not pictured: Danielle Glavin Labour. Photos: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Green Party and Liberal Democrats (Image: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Green Party and Liberal Democrats)

'If elected, my number one fight will be to stop massive new housing schemes, all around Dereham. This housing crisis is completely self-made.

'If we have enough new migrants arriving to fill one-and-a half cities, the size of Norwich, every year, why are we surprised when there are no houses, no GPs, no school places and congestion on all our roads?

'When people talk about building a million new houses, they forget that these houses are next door to someone else, a group of local people who have lived there for decades.

'Dereham is exactly the sort of town that the government thinks it can dump these houses on.

Cliff Jordan, leader of the Conservative group at Norfolk County Council. Pic: Conservative Party. (Image: Norfolk Conservatives)

'I will also fight to get executive pay in Norfolk down. Norfolk is one of the worst councils in the country for giving massive packages to staff and then cutting local people's services. I do not think any person working in any area of government should be paid more than the prime minister.'

Harry CLARKE (Labour)

'I am standing as Labour and Co-operative Party candidate in Dereham South. I know the area well as I represent part as a district councillor.

'I believe in serving you the residents, have set up Meet Your Councillors' events and have a record of standing up for Dereham all year - on planning, need for infrastructure first, transport, and asking for council meetings to suit residents that work.

Acle candidates (L-R): Tom Rednall (Labour) , David Moreland (UKIP) and Brian Iles (Conservative) . Not pictured Michael Blake (Lib Dem). Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party, UKIP, Norfolk Conservatives (Image: Courtesy of Labour Party,UKIP,Norfolk Conservatives)

'I support our market town, and want to establish residents associations and regular surgeries. I`m a strong, listening voice that will get things done. I'm a people person, already speaking up for you.'

Phillip DUIGAN (Conservative)

'As a local man and both town and district councillor, I am committed to working with the people of Toftwood and Dereham South to make it a good place to live.

'I understand the issues that affect the area, including anti-social behaviour and traffic congestion and will continue to work alongside the police and local residents to improve the situation.

Aylsham candidates (L-R): David Harrison - Liberal Democrates, Simon Court - Labour Party and Hal Turkmen - Norfolk Conservatives. Not pictured: Trevor Gardiner (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk County Council, Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives. (Image: courtesy of Norfolk County Council, Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives)

'Norfolk born, I have lived in the Dereham area all my life and have represented Toftwood at Breckland Council for the past 18 years.

'If elected I will strive to concentrate spending on efficient services while keeping your council tax to the minimum level possible.

'I welcome the government commitment to dual the A47. I will campaign for road and footpath maintenance to be a budget priority. Norfolk cannot function properly without a properly maintained transport system. With your support, I will work to make Dereham even better place to live and work.'

Paul SPEED (Lib Dem)

Blofield and Brundall candidates (L-R): Beth Davis - Green Party, Alan Pawsey - Labour Party and Andrew Proctor - Conservatives. Not pictured: Eleanor Mason (Lib Dems) and Armin Hess (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Green Party, Labour Party, Conservatives. (Image: courtesy of Green Party, Labour Party, Broadland Conservatives.)

No details provided

Elmham and Matishall (CONS held)

* Bill BORRETT (Conservative)

Drayton and Horsford candidates (L-R): Peter Sergeant - Liberal Democrats and Tony Adams - Conservatives. Not pictured Tony Hemmingway (Labour) Pictures: Denise Bradley, courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives (Image: Denise Bradley, courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives)

'I have been a county councillor since 2009. I live and work locally at Hoe with my partner Jules and their teenage daughters.

'On the county council, I have been chairman of the adult social care committee.

I am also a long serving member of Breckland Council where I am currently the chairman of the council. During my term in office I have supported the SSAFA, the Armed Forces Charity.

'As an experienced councillor, I am able to use my knowledge to get answers quickly and to get to the heart of the matter on behalf of local residents, and being a local candidate I know the area like the back of my hand.

Hellesdon candidates (L-R): Annie Thompson - Labour Party and Shelagh Gurney - Conservatives . Not pictured: David Britcher (Lib Dems). Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party, Conservatives (Image: courtesy of Labour Party, Conservatives)

'The most important thing a councillor can do is listen to the people he serves, and make sure that their interests are understood and protected by the local authority. I take this very seriously and am happy to be judged on my record.'

Linda GOREHAM (Labour)

No details provided

Richard SCOGGINS (Lib Dem)

Hevingham and Spixworth candidates (L-R): Philip Williams - Labour Party, Shaun Vincent - conservatives and Dan Roper - Liberal Democrats. Not pictured: Nancy Gardiner (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats)

'As a first time candidate and someone who is new to politics I'm very excited to be the Liberal Democrat candidate for Elmham and Mattishall.

'I firmly believe that it is important to work co-operatively with organisations and communities in an open and transparent way, to ensure I properly understand the important local issues and learn from the viewpoints of others. 'If successful I will work to protect our elderly and most vulnerable, ensuring they receive the support they so badly need. I will also look to ensure our young people are well educated and fully prepared for a productive work life.

'It's also vitally important to take decisions today which are right for the future, taking into account issues such as technological change and global warming.

'If successful I will be accessible to all in the community through holding regular monthly surgeries in the ward.'

Old Catton candidates, L-R: Jacky Howe, Liberal Democrats, Karen Vincent, Conservatives and Nesar Ahmed, Labour. Photo: Courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives and Labour Party (Image: Courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives and Labour Party)

Guiltcross (CONS held)

* Stephen ASKEW (Conservative)

'I am Norfolk born and bred and have lived and worked in Old Buckenham all my life. I attended both my village schools and have been running the family farm in partnership since the 1980s.

Reepham candidates, L-R: Greg Peck, Conservative, Ruth Goodall, Labour Party and Stuart Beadle, Liberal Democrats. Not pictured: Paul Brock (UKIP). Photo: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party and Liberal Democrats (Image: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party and Liberal Democrats)

'I believe in local representation for local people, the importance of a vibrant rural economy and locally sourced jobs. I believe that faster, reliable internet speeds and mobile phone signals are essential for rural Norfolk to compete in the 21st century market place.

'Norfolk is an attractive county to retire to and I would like to see access to adult social care more easily accessible. I am pleased to be standing as a local candidate on May 4.'

Stephen GORDON (Lib Dem)

Stephen has lived with his wife in Kenninghall Norfolk for the past 34 years. For much of that time he has been a member of his parish council and has latterly served as its chairman.

Sprowston candidates, L-R: Bill Couzens, Labour and John Ward, Conservatives. Not pictured: John Gilson (UKIP) and Martin Callum (Lib Dem). Photo: Courtesy of Labour Party and Norfolk Conservatives (Image: Courtesy of Labour Party and Norfolk Conservatives)

He said: I'm a Liberal Democrat because it's the political movement that best captures the importance of social justice in its political understanding and policy-making.

'Government cut-backs to funding county councils like Norfolk have had a damaging effect on its ability to work effectively across all areas of responsibility, but most of all on education and health and social services.

'As an elected Liberal Democrat councillor these areas will top my priority list, and I will work to ensure the most vulnerable in our society continue to get the best health, social care and education services possible.'

Christopher HARVEY (Labour)

Taverham candidates, L-R: Stuary Clancy, Conservatives and Trevor Turk, Labour Party. Not pictured Charles Ison (Lib Dem) and Ian Kelly (UKIP). Photo: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives and Labour Party (Image: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives and Labour Party)

'I am Norfolk born and bred and a passionate Labour Party supporter. I believe in democracy so have put myself forward to give all residents in Norfolk the opportunity to vote Labour in these elections.

'I grew up living on the Guiltcross Division as my family lived and worked in the Kilverstone area. I am now a Thetford town councillor and enjoy working hard to support residents and can regularly be found at resident association meetings or litter picking to keep our areas tidy.

'I'm particularly keen to support the Norfolk Labour policy of creating a transport system fit for the 21st century as poor bus, rail and road links hold back so many of our communities and I want to see this addressed. 'In my spare time I am passionate about football, having played when I was younger and been a referee. I now support grassroots football wherever possible.'

Thorpe St Andrews candidates, L-R: Dariush Fassihi, Labour, Ian Mackie, Conservatives and Phyllida Scrivens, Liberal Democrats. Photo: Courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives and Liberal Democrats (Image: Archant)

Necton and Launditch (CONS held)

* Mark KIDDLE-MORRIS (Conservative)

'I have been the county councillor for Necton and Launditch Division since 2009. I have lived in Litcham for 34 years with my wife Sally; we have three children who have all been educated locally.

'I served in the Royal Air Force at Marham and Swanton Morley leaving to take up a Ministry of Defence post as a project engineer. I have served on the board of governors of a local 'outstanding' primary school for 17 years.

Woodside candidates, L-R: John Fisher, Conservatives and Natasha Harpley, Labour. Not pictured Ean Newberry (UKIP) and Dave Thomas (Lib Dem). Photo: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives and Labour Party (Image: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives and Labour Party)

'Over the last eight years I have worked hard to ensure that the concerns and problems of local residents and parish councils are properly addressed by the county council.

'I have advised and helped communities on matters as diverse as highway maintenance, footpath and public rights of way, flooding and minerals and waste planning.

'I will continue supporting rural businesses, communities and individuals so that future generations can live and work in a Norfolk that is strong and vibrant.'

Joe SISTO (Labour)

Wroxham candidates, L-R: Stephen Heard, Liberal Democrat and Tom Garrod, Conservative. Not pictured: Nick Ball (Green), Christine Hemmingway (Labour) and Adrian Wymer (UKIP). Photo: Courtesy of Liberal Democrats and Norfolk Conservatives (Image: Courtesy of Liberal Democrats and Norfolk Conservatives)

No details provided

Swaffham (UKIP held)

Ed COLMAN (Conservative)

Breydon candidates: Trevor Wainwright - Labour Party, Carl Smith - Conservatives and Alan Gray - UKIP. Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, UKIP. (Image: courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, UKIP.)

'I am Ed Colman and on May 4, I am asking the people of Narborough, Narford, Newton by Castle Acre, South Acre, Palgrave, Sporle and Swaffham to support me in my bid to become their representative at County Hall.

'After four years of losing out under a UKIP councillor, I will ensure that everyone in my division is given an opportunity to have their say on the key decisions taken by the council.

'I will work closer than ever before with district, town and parish councils to ensure we are delivering for residents.

'Speaking to people on the doorstep it is clear than the people feel distanced from their councillor; so, if you want someone who is committed to bringing the community closer to the person who you elect then please get behind me at the polls on May 4.

Caister-on-Sea candidates (L-R): Donna Hammond - UKIP, Penny Carpenter - Conservative Party and Harry Webb - Green Party. Not pictured: Christina Horne (Labour). Pictures: courtesy of UKIP, Norfolk Conservatives, Green Party (Image: courtesy of UKIP, Norfolk Conservatives, Green Party)

'I will be the visible, accessible and accountable voice you deserve.'

Kate SAYER (Lib Dem)

'I have previously had a career in secondary education locally and previously in research. As a community activist I am determined to fight for local people on issues that are important to them.

'I have a long and particular passion for high educational achievement, making sure that schools receive sufficient funding to make this goal a reality.

East Flegg candidates (L-R): Jonathan Childs - UKIP, Ken Petersen - Green Party and Ron Hanton - conservatives. Not pictured: John Simmons (Labour). Pictures: Archant, courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives (Image: Archant, courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives)

'Trained as a geographer, I understand and recognise the complex issues of balancing the environment with the rural economy. The need to encourage successful rural businesses, supported by high speed broadband and infrastructure to provide employment for local people.

'There is also an urgent need to reduce air pollution in the town centre to protect the health of both the elderly as well as the very young. We also need to find sound solutions for diverting traffic away from these concentrations of residents.

'There has already been significant development in this historic market town and this now needs to be consolidated with adequate facilities to match. I give a high priority to seeking solutions to the increasing traffic generated in these new developments, as well as designing new routes and facilities for Swaffham and its hinterland.'

* Paul SMYTH (UKIP)

Gorleston St Andrews candidates (L-R): Graham Plant - conservatives, Kay Grey - UKIP and Tracey Darnell - Green Party. Not pictured: Tony Wright (Labour) Pictures: James Bass, courtesy of UKIP, Green Party (Image: James Bass, courtesy of UKIP, Green Party)

'The county council has suffered years of government cuts, and with £70m+ more to come, it faces a funding crisis.

'My 25-year military career, personal qualities and life experience equip me well to be a councillor and my proven track record at County Hall shows I can do the job.

'So I am the right candidate to be the Swaffham Division's representative in this challenging time.

'If I am re-elected I will focus on three things: fighting against next year's planned Conservative £490K cut to our fire service; tackling rising health problems (long-term health issues like dementia, obesity and isolation), and improving how the council delivers services in the Swaffham area.

Lothingland candidates (L-R): Andrew Grant - Conservatives, Cara Walker - Labour Party and Carl Annison - UKIP. Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party, UKIP (Image: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party, UKIP)

'These last two aims require better planning and coordination, and more local partnerships, which I will strengthen. So please let me be your trusted voice at County Hall again. Thank you.'

Philip WAGSTAFF (Labour)

'Norfolk feels as if it has been frozen in time, and it suits the Tories to keep it that way. Worse they are busy selling off the good things we once had and eroding the quality of life.

'Swaffham once enjoyed a vibrant rural economy, efficient, accessible bus and train services and locally accountable schools. Now, even our children's education has been handed to big business in the pursuit of the Tories' extreme market ideology and the county's school results are suffering.

Magdalen candidates (L-R): Colleen Walker - Labour Party, John Ellerton - UKIP and Julia Miller - Conservatives. Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party,UKIP,Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of Labour Party,UKIP,Norfolk Conservatives)

'I've been married for over 40 years it breaks my heart to see young people, like my two adult children, faced with zero-hours work, job insecurity, poverty pay and the growing shortage of affordable housing. Their future looks grim.

'On Thursday, May 4, you can take one small step to stop the Tory rot by voting for me, Phil Wagstaff, your Swaffham Labour candidate.'

The Brecks (CONS held)

West Flegg candidates, L-R: Haydn Thirtle, Conservatives, Kim Morris, Liberal Democrats and Michael Toomey, UKIP. Photo: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and UKIP (Image: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and UKIP)

Brenda CANHAM (Labour)

'The Brecks is a beautiful part of Norfolk and it is an area that I know well having lived locally for over 35 years with my husband, raising our three sons.

'I am seeking your support to become the county councillor for the Brecks. I have previous local government experience having served on Breckland Council and I am currently a Thetford Town Councillor and chair the amenities, land and property committee. 'I am standing to protect our open spaces and deal with issues that affect us all.

'I support the Norfolk Labour manifesto priorities which include creating a transport system fit for the 21st Century which is important to us here in The Brecks.

Yarmouth Nelson and Southtown candidates, L-R: Peter Fitzgerald, UKIP, George Rogers, Conservative, Lisa Alston, Liberal Democrats and Mike Smith-Clare, Labour. Photo: Courtesy of UKIP, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and Labour Party (Image: Courtesy of UKIP, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and Labour Party)

'As a mother, and now a grand-mother, the pledge to make Norfolk a great place to grow up is particularly important to me and I firmly believe that we must invest in our future generations.'

Fabian EAGLE (Conservative)

Fabian is proud to have been born in one of the division's villages, North Pickenham and continues to live there with his family.

Fabian is a keen supporter of the local community and has assisted local charities and groups and has been on the committee of the Wayland Show for 18 years.

Yarmouth North and Cenral candidates, L-R: Chris Walch, UKIP, James Bensly, Conservatives and Mick Castle, Labour. Photo: Courtesy of UKIP, Norfolk Conservatives and Labour Party (Image: Courtesy of UKIP, Norfolk Conservatives and Labour Party)

Fabian will make sure community groups are aware of any county council grants and support.

Fabian says that the villages of the Brecks division need to continue to have a voice on Norfolk County Council and Fabian would like to carry on Ian Monson's hard work for the division.

Ian MINTO (Lib Dem)

Ian Minto runs his own technology innovation business based in the village of Thompson.

Cromer candidates (TL-BR): Jane Worsdale - Labour Party, John Digby - UKIP, Mike Bossingham - Green Party, Tim Adams - Liberal Democrats, Hilary Cox - Conservatives. Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party, UKIP, Green Party, Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of Labour Party, UKIP, Green Party, Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives)

He has served locally as a parish councillor and school governor.

He seeks to bring fresh thinking and action in our rural communities to adult social care, the expansion of business innovation opportunities and accelerated access to high speed broadband services for everyone.

He believes in an open and tolerant society that sustains the creativity and compassion of his compatriots. Ian entirely endorses the Liberal Democratic Party's position on the value of the European Union.

Sandra WALMSLEY (Green)

Fakenham candidates (L-R): Hugh Lanham - Liberal Democrats, Imogen Bruce - Labour Party, Jack Smith - UKIP and Tom FitzPatrick. Not pictured: Jenny Outred (Green) Pictures: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Labour Party, UKIP, Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Labour Party, UKIP, Norfolk Conservatives)

'I worked for social justice for over 40 years in social care and health. I have lived in Norfolk for over 20 years and been a school governor and parish councillor.

'I see local problems such as: our public services crumbling with years of council grant cuts; the rich getting richer, the poorest suffering; the council stopped from raising money for social care - too little too late and NHS collapsing while private companies make profits.

'We must strengthen and support local industry. Conservative's international trade deals and hard Brexit threaten local family farmers and our local economy.

'Norfolk can lead on renewables and Britain could be more self sufficient in good food. But intensive farming destroys land, lowers animal welfare and reduces jobs; local food is not promoted; good farmland is wasted on fuel crops and agricultural land is sold for development

Holt candidates (L-R): David Ward - Conservatives, Paula D'Attoma - Green Party, Richard Kelham - Labour Party and Sarah Butikofer - Liberal Democrats. Not pictured: Terry Comber (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Green Party, Labour Party, Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Green Party, Labour Party, Liberal Democrats)

'I fight for good public transport; good education and training; good local jobs and affordable housing.'

Thetford East (UKIP held)

Roy BRAME (Conservative)

Hoverton and Stalham cadidates (L-R): Mandy Mckenna - Labour Party, Mike Macartney-Filgate - Green Party, Nigel Dixon - conservatives and Philip Livesey - Liberal Democrats. Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party, Green Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Labour Party, Green Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats)

'My reason for standing as a Conservative candidate for Thetford East division is that as a local business man I am determined to work hard to achieve improvements in our town.

'We have a town we could be proud of, and my priority is to ensure that this pride is realised. The Conservative District Council have made a start on the regeneration of the town centre.

'A Conservative county council, with a clear vision which is fully budgeted, will see an improvement throughout the county in child and adult services, highways and education.

'If I can rely on your vote you can rely on me to get your voice and that of Thetford heard. We know that Thetford is the gateway to Norfolk, and I want to put our town at the front of Norfolk County Council thinking.'

Melton Constable candidates (L-R): Alicia Hull - Green Party, Annie Claussen Reynolds - Conservatives, Callum Ringer - Labour Party, David Ramsbotham - UKIP and Steffan Aquarone - Liberal Democrats. Pictures: courtesy of Green Party,Broadland Conservatives,Labour Party,UKIP,Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Green Party,Broadland Conservatives,Labour Party,UKIP,Liberal Democrats)

Mike BRINDLE (Labour)

'If elected I will work to ensure Norfolk focuses on Thetford's traffic and road problems (potholes, road signage, parking). We need decent adult services and schools in Thetford.

'We need good quality jobs for all those coming into the new houses being built and we need services such as doctors and dentists too.

'Recently I have led the campaign for the Cottage Hospital in Thetford and have set up a new Residents' group in Cloverfield.

Mundesley candidates (L-R): Ed Maxfield - Liberal Democrats, Fiona Turner - Conservatives and Ray Mooney - Labour Party. Not pictured: Graham Jones (independent) and Alexander Wood (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Liberal Democrats,Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party (Image: courtesy of Liberal Democrats,Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party)

'I will continue to fight for residents' wishes on litter, anti-social behaviour, the bus station cafe (or lack of it) and the threat to our post office. These things add up to the quality of life in our town.

'As a town councillor and former Norfolk councillor, I know how to make the system work for us. I'm asking you to vote for me so I can continue to work for the town and people of Thetford.'

* Denis CRAWFORD (UKIP)

'Living in Thetford since 1972 I have seen many changes. Elected to Norfolk County Council in 2012 I feel honoured representing and helping sort issues for the people of Thetford.

North Walsham East candidates, L-R: Alexander Olive, Conservative, Eric Seward, Liberal Democrats, Jacqui Cross, Labour and Jo Todd, Green Party. Not pictured: Lynette Comber (UKIP). Photo: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party and Green Party (Image: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party and Green Party)

'As a UKIP councillor with no whip unlike the other parties I am able to give priority to my constituents concerns over and above any party political pressures. Regularly attending four resident association meetings allows me to hear the opinions of local people and act on their behalf.

'The Conservative administration voted to cut £490K from the Norfolk fire and rescue service in the recent budget, and plan further cuts to other services.

'Recent provisional figures show a massive 10 per cent increase to £13.3bn billion in 2016 in government spending on 'overseas aid'.

'One of my main objectives has to be to fight these cuts in local services.'

Sheringham candidates, L-R: Helen Dalton-Hare, Liberal Democrats, Judy Oliver, Conservatives, Julian Drury, Green Party and Sue Brisbane, Labour Party. Not pictured: Steven DeLa Salle (UKIP). Photo: Courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives, Green Party and Labour Party (Image: Courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives, Green Party and Labour Party)

Thetford West (LABOUR held)

Jane JAMES (Conservative)

'A certified bookkeeper and mother of two, I have recently completed an Open University Degree and am looking forward to my Graduation at Ely Cathedral in the summer.

South Smallburgh candidates, L-R: Anne Filgate, Green Party, Clive Stockton, Liberal Democrats, David Russell, Labour and Richard Price, Conservatives. Not pictured: Michael Baker (UKIP). Photo: Courtesy of Green Party, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party and Norfolk Conservatives (Image: Courtesy of Green Party, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party and Norfolk Conservatives)

'I was elected onto Thetford Town Council in January this year and have enjoyed getting stuck into local issues whilst learning more about my home town. Volunteering is important to me and I am currently involved with Thetford Netball Club, Link-Up and 3rd Thetford Scout Group.

'I have spent about a decade as a school governor. As chair of governors at Admirals Academy, I was part of the team that delivered the improvements leading to the 'Good' Ofsted rating in 2014.

'I see Thetford as Norfolk's Front Door and am keen to ensure it develops a stronger sense of community, becoming a place where people want to live, work and enjoy by giving Thetford people an effective voice at Norfolk County Council.'

* Terry JERMY (Labour)

Wells candidates, L-R: Becky Palmer, Conservatives, Kara Betts, Green Party, Marie Strong, Liberal Democrats and Stephen Burke, Labour. Not pictured: John Dymond (UKIP). Photo: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Green Party, Liberal Democrats and Labour Party (Image: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Green Party, Liberal Democrats and Labour Party)

'Having been born and raised in Thetford, it has been my honour to serve as a county councillor for the past four years and as Mayor of Thetford for the past year.

'I am seeking your support to continue as the representative for Thetford – West and continue to champion our community and work towards addressing the issues that I know matter to local residents.

'I have sought to be a strong voice for Thetford at County Hall and report back to residents that I represent through regular use of social media, attendance at resident's meetings and production of regular newsletters.

'My record as a councillor speaks for itself and I am focused on getting results. Having lost previously at an election by a single vote I encourage all residents to exercise their democratic right and vote this time around and I hope that I can count on your support.'

Bowthorpe candiadtes (L-R): Henry Netwon - Norfolk Conservatives, Michelle Newton - UKIP, Mike Sands - Labour Party, Nannette Youssef - Green Party, Silvia Schmidtova - Liberal Democrats. Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives,Labour Party,Green Party,Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives,Labour Party,Green Party,Liberal Democrats)

John NEWTON (UKIP)

'Having lived and worked in Thetford for over 40 years and as an elected councillor, regularly attending several resident association meetings, I am aware of the general concerns of Thetford residents.

'The Conservative administration in County Hall ruthlessly implementing reductions in local services will affect many people.

'Conservative election literature cynically says they will protect services including fire and rescue, but 41 Conservative County councillors voted down a UKIP proposal to stop a planned £490K cut to the Fire Service next year, which has suffered over £5M of cuts this decade and is already understaffed in several stations. Cuts to other services are planned.

Catton Grove candidates (L-R): Steve Morphew - Labour Party and Tony Park - Green Party. Not pictured: Michelle Ho (independent) and Leigh Tooke (Lib Dem). Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party, Green Party (Image: courtesy of Labour Party, Green Party)

'UKIP councillors with no whip, unlike the other parties, can freely act on behalf of their constituents' concerns.

'My main objectives would be fighting such cuts and pushing for infrastructure planning for Thetford to cope with the increased population.'

Watton (CONS held)

Crome candidates. Left to right: George Nobbs (Labour), Jonathan Emsell (Conservatives), Judith Ford (Greens). Not pictured: Ian Leach (Lib Dem), Ann Williams (UKIP). Pics: Archant, Conservatives, Green Party. (Image: Archant)

Timothy BIRT (Green)

'I have made Breckland my home since 1991 and as a life member of the Green Party I have been actively connected with local issues.

'I am a self-employed engineer, married with a son at uni and daughter at sixth form. Personal interests include the storing home-made renewable energy and exploring footpaths.

'I have served as a town councillor and parish councillor and have engaged with many services provided by the Norfolk County Council, from highways, waste/recycling, schools to health.

Eaton candidates (L-R): Brian Watkins - Liberal Democrats, Ian Stutely - Labour Party, Jane Saunders - Green Party and William Robb - Conservatives. Not pictured: George Cullingworth (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Labour Party, Green Party, Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Labour Party, Green Party, Norfolk Conservatives)

'Following government support grant cuts and previous disastrous secret deals with big business, Norfolk is left in a precarious funding position.

'Norfolk must fight for a better deal (just like Surrey Council managed). Along with fighting for local services, I have a long standing reputation for asking the awkward questions or as a reporter once said 'rattling cages', a useful asset for highlighting issues and ensuring robust decision making.'

* Claire BOWES (Conservative)

'I have represented the Watton Division on Norfolk County Council since November 2015 and I am an impassioned advocate for democracy at all levels.

Lakenham candidates (L-R): Brenda Jones - Labour Party, Emily Cutler - Liberal Democrats, Eric Marsters - UKIP, Paul Neale - Green Party and Tom Sherman - Conservatives. Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party, Liberal Democrats, UKIP, Green Party, Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of Labour Party, Liberal Democrats, UKIP, Green Party, Norfolk Conservatives)

'Having become increasingly disillusioned with the usurping of Westminster's ability to control our country's future way in the world, I voted to leave the EU in June 2016 referendum.

'The strong foundations of democracy present in Norfolk stand us in good stead for the future but the feelings of residents must be reflected in the national decision making process as we build a new future in a post Brexit world.

'I was born in Watton and have lived and worked in the area most of my life, raising my three children here. I have been privileged to represent Watton at Breckland District Council for the past 10 years.

'My support for our community is shown in my volunteering as secretary to the Wayland Agricultural Society, continuing a family association with stretching back three generations.'

Mancroft candidates (L-R): Danny Douglas - Labour Party, Gordon Dean - Liberal Democrats, Martin Schmierer - Green Party and Samantha England - Conservatives. Not pictured: Paddy Ball (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party,Liberal Democrats,Green Party,Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of Labour Party,Liberal Democrats,Green Party,Norfolk Conservatives)

Danielle GLAVIN (Labour)

No details provided

Victor SCRIVENS (Lib Dem)

'It is always the little things that make a community. Protecting our environment is a crucial part of the Liberal Democrat objectives on the county council.

Mile Cross candidates (L-R): Alex Jackson-Dennis - Conservatives, Chrissie Rumsby - Labour Party, Deborah Gihawi - Independent, Lisa Shaw - Green Party and Magdalena Swiec - Liberal Democrats. Not pictured: David Rowell (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives,Labour Party,Green Party,Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives,Labour Party,Green Party,Liberal Democrats)

'Such examples as the local Loch Neaton and the home of our Babes in the Wood, Wayland Wood are fundamental to our local way of life.

'But it's not just our environment it's also the people. Looking after the elderly, the vulnerable and especially the education of our young, they are our future.

'I am committed to work to integrate the health and social care services in Norfolk into a single service with a combined budget.

'This will bring substantial benefits both in preventing people being forced to stay in hospital longer than necessary and making more hospital beds available to those who really need them.'

Nelson candidates (L-R): David Fairbairn - Liberal Democrats, Jess Barnard - Labour Party, John Youles - UKIP, Tim Jones - Green Party and William Richardson - Conservatives. Pictures: courtesy of Liberal Democrats,Labour Party,UKIP,Green Party,Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of Liberal Democrats,Labour Party,UKIP,Green Party,Norfolk Conservatives)

Yare and All Saints (CONS held)

* Cliff JORDAN (Conservative)

'I was born and bred in Norfolk, and have lived near Dereham for most of my life. I am married with grown-up sons, grandchildren and a great grand-daughter. I worked as a self-employed businessman, but was driven to pursue a career in politics from my sense of public service.

Sewell candidates, L-R: Alice Thompson, Liberal Democrats, Glenn Tingle, UKIP, Ian Chapman, Green Party, Julie Brociek-Coulton, Labour and Robin Sear, Conservatives. Photo: Courtesy of Liberal Democrats, UKIP, Green Party, Labour Party and Norfolk Conservatives (Image: Courtesy of Liberal Democrats, UKIP, Green Party, Labour Party and Norfolk Conservatives)

'I became a councillor in Breckland, going on to lead the district council for six years. I have also served Yare and All Saints at the county council for several years where I have worked on behalf of local residents with determination and consistent achievement.

'In 2015, I became leader of the county Conservative Group and, a year later, leader of Norfolk County Council. I have devoted my time since then to getting the council and its finances back on a sound footing. I believe in holding authorities to account and will continue to work hard and stand up for my constituents.'

Christine MCLEAN (Lib Dem)

No details provided

Thorpe Hamlet candidates, L-R: Chris Jones, Labour, Lesley Grahame, Green Party, Sarah Tustin, Liberal Democrats and Steve Barber, Conservatives. Not pictured: Nick Lansdell (UKIP). Photo: Courtesy of Labour Party, Green Party, Liberal Democrats and Norfolk Conservatives (Image: Courtesy of Labour Party, Green Party, Liberal Democrats and Norfolk Conservatives)

Paul Siegert (Labour)

No details provided

BROADLAND

Town Close candidates, L-R: Emma Corlett, Labour, James Anthony, Liberal Democrats, Mary Chacksfield, Conservatives and Phil Di Palma, Green Party. Not pictured: Anthea Rule (UKIP). Photo: Courtesy of Labour Party, Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives and Green Party (Image: Courtesy of Labour Party, Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives and Green Party)

Acle (CONS held)

Michael BLAKE (Lib Dem)

No details provided

University candidates, L-R: Dave Rowntree, Labour, Gary Walsh, Conservatives, Lewis Martin, Green Party and Toby Bennett, Liberal Democrats. Not pictured: Rob Lowe (UKIP). Photo: Courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Green Party and Liberal Democrats (Image: Courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Green Party and Liberal Democrats)

* Brian ILES (Conservative)

'I have lived in the Norfolk for 19 years. I am married with three children, five grandchildren and more on the way.

'I was elected as county councillor for Acle ( which includes Beighton, Freethorpe, Halvergate, Lingwood and Reedham ) in 2001. I was an engineer and businessman working both abroad, and then in every region in the UK. I have found my fifty plus years' experience useful in dealing with council matters, making my work as a cabinet member for economic development successful.

'I came into politics to help older people who sometimes struggle with understanding how the system works. I enjoy varied work both at county and with local parish issues and feel that without work I would soon be getting under my wife's feet at home - not to be recommended!

Wensum candidates, L-R: David King, Conservatives, Jack Spoon, Liberal Democrats, Kim Clipsham, Labour and Richard Edwards, Green Party. Not pictured: Steven Bradley (UKIP). Photo: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party and Green Party (Image: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party and Green Party)

'I know that there are still local issues that I can help in finding a solution for - as I have frequently done so in the past!'

David MORELAND (UKIP)

'I have been a UKIP member for 11 years, and the chairman of the UKIP Broadland Branch.

'I am currently standing in the county council election for Acle and last year stood as the UKIP candidate for Norfolk in the Police and Crime Commissioner election.

Clavering candidates (L-R): Chris Brown - Liberal Democrates, Margaret Stone - Conservatives and Nicola Fowler - Labour Party. Pictures: courtesy of Liberal Democrates, Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party (Image: courtesy of Liberal Democrates, Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party)

'I have lived in Norfolk for 13 years, currently living in Martham.

'I am an ex British Infantry Soldier of the 3rd Battalion Royal Green Jackets, and an ex Metropolitan Police Scotland Yard CID officer.

'I am a people person and my aim has always been to serve and care for the people of the UK.'

Thomas REDNALL (Labour)

Costessey candidates (L-R): Andrew Wiltshire - Conservatives and Tim East - Liberal Democrats. Not pictured: Jonathan Garrard (Labour) and Catherine Rowett (Green). Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Archant (Image: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Archant)

'I am standing for election in Acle because I recognise that our community deserves more.

'Our ageing population is being let down by poor public transport to the surrounding villages, the difficulties of providing care for ill or disabled family members highlights the lack of support for paid and unpaid carers and our local education system has been let down by academisation.

'I know Acle and the surrounding villages want something better for themselves and their loved ones, a properly funded adult social care system, a road network that will bring Norfolk into the 21st Century and targeted investment in bus services to deliver better buses and timetables for rural areas.

'These won't be easy to achieve, but by choosing Labour these will become our priorities and we can set things right for Acle. I hope I can count on your support on May 4.'

Diss and Roydon candidates (L-R): Chris Davison - Labour Party, Keith Kiddie - Conservatives and Tracy Scoggins - Liberal Democrats. Not pictured: David Milton (Diss). Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Deoicrats (Image: courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Deoicrats)

Aylsham (LIB DEM held)

Simon COURT (Labour)

'I am standing because it is time for a change and a strong voice on Norfolk County Council.

East Depwade candidates (L-R): James Eddy - Labour Party, Martin Wilby - Conservatives and Sue Kuzmic - Liberal Democrats, Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats)

'We need secure, properly paid jobs, affordable homes for local people and real action to protect our environment.

'I will work to upgrade infrastructure so the Aylsham area is a great place to live and benefits from the completion of the NDR.

'I will stand up against continuing Tory cuts which threaten the most vulnerable in our community and leave local schools planning to cut staffing.

'I bring to the job passion and life experiences. From teaching in schools through to being self-employed, I've been a stay at home dad and a community campaigner.

Forehoe candiates (L-R): Bob McClenning - Liberal Democrats, Colin Foulger - Conservatives and Steve Sewell - Labour Party. Pictures: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party (Image: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party)

'I've worked in factories, volunteered, worked for charities and been a school governor in Aylsham. I will speak up. I am happy to say what needs to be done.'

Trevor GARDINER (UKIP)

No details provided

* David HARRISON (Lib Dem)

Henstead candidates (L-R): Mattt Hammond - Liberal Democrats, Thomas Fowler - Labour Party and Vic Thomson - Conservatives. Pictures: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives)

'I have been the county councillor for Aylsham for the past nine years. In my previous life I was a biological scientist specialising in nutrition, and I worked in universities and research institutes in the UK and overseas.

'Not surprisingly my specialist interests are health and education. The Conservatives had controlled the county council for years, and had become complacent, and when we formed the Rainbow Alliance four years ago the educational standards in Norfolk were some of the lowest in the country.

'They have now hugely improved, both for child and adult education, and I'm hugely proud of this, and it shows what can be done when you apply yourself to the problems in hand. In the alliance I served one year as cabinet member for transport and waste and had to deal with the problems of the incinerator, a disastrous project set up by the Conservatives which eventually cost the county almost £40m.

'I then served one year as deputy leader in control of an operating budget of more than £60m, trying desperately to deal with the brutal cuts imposed on the county by the Tory central government. So I have considerable experience in how the County Council actually works, and I hope to continue that work in the future.'

Hingham candidates (L-R): Margaret Dewsbury - Conservatives and Paul Blathwayt - Liberal Democrats. Not pictured: James Leman (Labour). Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats)

Hal TURKMEN (Conservative)

'I have been a Norfolk 'adoptee' for 27 years since my marriage to my wife Heidi, whose family comes from Aylsham.

'I went on to work as a financial consultant in Norfolk and eventually set up my own company distributing healthcare products to pharmacies.

'I have run successful businesses in the UK including heading the operations of a large multi-national American company. 'Later I expanded my own company operations into the USA and our company products sold in pharmacies throughout America.

Humbleyard candidates (L-R): Bethan Gulliver - Labour Party, David Bills - Conservatives and Jacky Sutton - Liberal Democrats. Pictures: courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats)

'Eventually I sold the product lines to a Canadian company and now I am involved with helping a local charity based in Aylsham, helping to improve the lives of the people who live in the local area.

'I enjoy travelling with my family in the UK and abroad but Norfolk will always be the place I call home.

'I am running as a candidate in this election with fresh ideas and a fresh vision for Aylsham, Norfolk and the county council.'

Loddon candidates (L-R): Barry Stone - Conservatives, David Bingham - Liberal Democrats and David Bissonnet - Labour Party. Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party (Image: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party)

Blofield and Brundall (CONS held)

Beth DAVIS (Green)

'I am standing to offer a young person's perspective on local issues, a voice which I think is often missing from Norfolk politics.

'23-years-old from the Brundall & Blofield area, I am a graduate of the University of London with a degree in French and Arabic languages.

Long Stratton candidates (L-R): Alison Thomas - Conservatives, Elana Katz - Labour Party and Rodger Percival - Liberal Democrats. Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party, Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party, Liberal Democrats)

'Since then I have worked for Naked Wines, a local Norwich-based company; as an English language tutor and youth leader; and as a teaching assistant at an international school in Oman.

'My professional interests include global citizenship education and social work.

'I am committed to seeing that all residents in the Blofield & Brundall area have access to services which support and enhance our community's wellbeing, be that in terms of employment and financial security or health and social security.

'Key focuses for me in our area are: educational opportunities and public transport services.'

West Depwade candidates, L-R: Bev Spratt, Conservatives, Ian Spratt, Liberal Democrats and Pam Reeklie, Labour. Photo: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and Labour Party (Image: Courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and Labour Party)

Armin HESS (UKIP)

No details provided

Eleanor MASON (Lib Dem)

No details provided

Wymondham candidates, L-R: Doug Underwood, Labour, Joe Mooney, Conservatives, and Julian Halls, Liberal Democrats. Photo: Courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives and Liberal Democrats (Image: Courtesy of Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives and Liberal Democrats)

Alan PAWSEY (Labour)

'I am a retired civil servant with long experience of working with ministers and leading the UK delegation at meetings with the European Union.

'This experience will be beneficial in representing the interests of all voters if I am elected to the council.

'I have lived in both Brundall and Blofield for almost 40 years and know the issues which affect us all.

Clenchwarton and Kings Lynn candidates (L-R): Alexandra Kemp - Independent, Chris Crofts - Conservatives and Deborah Holman - Labour Party. Not pictured: Trevor Roberts (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Alexandra Kemp, Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party (Image: courtesy of Alexandra Kemp, Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party)

'Blofield and Brundall are experiencing considerable growth with many new housing developments having received planning permission but there has been a lack of investment in the infrastructure required to support this development.

'This and the need for improved public transport are key issues affecting Blofield, Brundall and the surrounding villages whilst the dualling of the A47 at Burlingham is also a major concern for many of you. We need investment in the key services which the county council provides and only Labour can deliver on this.'

* Andrew PROCTOR (Conservative)

'I have lived in Brundall for the past 29 years, so as well as the division being my home it's one I have been proud to represent on Norfolk County Council for the past eight years. I am also the Leader of Broadland District Council.

Stuart Dark, Conservative candidate for Dersingham. Pic: Norfolk Conservatives. Not pictured: Ed Robb (Labour) and Harry Lane (Lib Dem). (Image: Norfolk Conservatives)

'Locally and nationally 2017 and beyond will be years of change and challenge and I want to see that we plan properly for the future and seek to shape our own destinies.

'We need to grow the economy and provide good infrastructure but ensure that development doesn't swamp our communities. 'Budgets for councils, just like households and businesses, dictate what we can plan for and do each year and choices have to be made.

'That's why it's vital that Norfolk County Council uses your council tax pound wisely. It has always been and continues to be my aim to ensure that the best possible services are delivered at the lowest cost to meet the needs of all our residents.'

Docking candidates (L-R): Adrienne Lake - Labour Party, David Mills - Liberal Democrats and Michael Chenery - Conservatives. Picture: courtesy of Labour Party, Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of Labour Party, Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives)

Drayton and Horsford (CONS held)

* Tony ADAMS (Conservative)

'I was first elected as a county councillor in 1997. When first elected I represented Hellesdon North, Horsford & Horsham & Newton St Faiths.

'However following a boundary review, in the 2005 election I lost Hellesdon North and Horsham and Newton St. Faiths, but gained Drayton and Felthorpe.

Downham Market candidates (L-R): Dave Williams - UKIP, Jackie Crockston - Labour Party, Josie Ratcliffe - Liberal Democrats and Tony White - Conservatives. Pictures: courtesy of UKIP, Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of UKIP, Labour Party, Norfolk Conservatives)

'My priorities include: On the NDR, to provide the Western missing link to the A47 thus relieving levels of traffic through Drayton and Horsford.

'For Felthorpe, upon the completion of the NDR, to press for The Street to cease to be a designated HGV route. On planning, to seek to achieve a five year land supply as required by national government as a matter of urgency so locally we can decide where new developments can take place and not some remote Planning Inspector from another part of the country.

'Horsford, in particular, has suffered as a result of a lack of a five year land supply. Also to seek to ensure that where new development does takes place necessary infrastructure such as roads, schools etc are provided.'

Tony HEMMINGWAY (Labour)

Feltwell candidates (L-R): John Crofts - Liberal Democrats, Martin Storey - Conservatives and Peter Wortley - Labour Party. Pictures: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party (Image: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party)

No details provided

Peter SERGEANT (Lib Dem)

'I will be standing to keep the best Norfolk has to offer and secure a better future for the communities of Drayton Felthorpe and Horsford.

'I will be 60 this year, a retired fire officer now running a seasonal business and engaged community activist (Drayton Village Hall committee chair, past Scout leader and chair).

Fincham candidates (L-R): Ashely Collins - UKIP, Brian Long - Conservatives, Carol Renard - Liberal Democrats and Samantha Gipson - Labour Party. Pictures: courtesy of UKIP, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party (Image: UKIP, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party)

'A Drayton resident, I have seen this area adapt, as Thorpe Marriott developed including pressures as my children attended local schools.

'We can now see the NDR taking shape – and the gap between the Fakenham and Dereham Roads. I will seek completion of the missing link.

H'ouse development continues apace in the area – We experience the pressures on local infrastructure so I will be seeking to ensure enough school places, social support and community facilities are provided alongside any development our challenge is to build on the community spirit to keep this area a great place to live.'

Freebridge Lynn candiadates (L-R): Michael de Whalley - Green Party, Simon Eyre - Conservatives, Simon Wells - Liberal Democrats, Wilf Lambert - Labour Party. Not pictured: Christine Perkins (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Green Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party (Image: courtesy of Green Party, Norfolk Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Labour Party)

Hellesdon (CONS held)

David BRITCHER (Lib Dem)

'Living in Hellesdon and raising my family here, I am well aware of the issues we face. Although some are of very local, most are of a wider nature.

'The situation regarding housing expansion and our health service are good examples. Building on our open spaces has created alarm among many of our residents.

Gayton and Nar Valley candidates (L-R): Andrew Nixon - Liberal Democrats, Graham Middleton - Conservatives and Natasha Morgan - Labour Party. Not pictured: John Corden (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party (Image: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party)

'Not providing the infrastructure promised when the original plans were submitted, still creates anger and frustration. I am determined to fight for the best interests of our local community.

'Another major concern is what is happening to our local health facilities. I am committed to working towards integrating the health and social care services in Norfolk into a single service with a combined budget.

'This will bring substantial benefits both in preventing people being forced to stay in hospital longer than necessary and making more hospital beds available to those who really need them.'

* Shelagh GURNEY (Conservative)

Gaywood North and Central candidates (L-R): Jim Perkins - UKIP, John Collop - Labour Party, Patrick Rochford - Independent and Sheila Young - Conservatives. Not pictured: Ian Swinton (Lib Dem). Pictures: courtesy of UKIP, Labour Party, submitted, Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of UKIP, Labour Party, submitted, Norfolk conservatives)

'Since May 2013 I have worked tirelessly to ensure that Hellesdon has a strong voice and reliable representation on Norfolk County Council.

'Hellesdon is a nice place to live, with good schools, businesses and amenities. If re-elected I will continue to work hard to ensure that it remains so.

'Norfolk County Council elections this year are vitally important to Hellesdon this May. Services that affect us such as education, looked after children, social services, public protection, roads, buses and recycling need to be of a very high, sustainable and acceptable quality, yet they need to be affordable without having a detrimental effect on the level of council tax we pay.

'There are many challenges that face the community I have lived in for nearly thirty-two years. I am an active and devoted campaigner, working with other local councillors to sure that our parish continues to thrive and remain vibrant. I sincerely hope that I can continue to be a true and effective ambassador for Hellesdon and its residents for many years to come.'

Gaywood south candidates (L-R): Rob Colwell - Liberal Democrats and Thomas Smith - Norfolk Conservatives. Not pictured: Margaret Wilkinson (Labour) and Michael Stone (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives (Image: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives)

Annie THOMPSON (Labour)

'I've looked after vulnerable older people all my working life and I know the need for high quality health, housing, and social care services, and of the real worth of all our underpaid and under-valued voluntary carers.

'I'm a former nurse and currently an assessor/trainer for healthcare staff.

'Previously, I managed a citywide health & social care watchdog body.

King's Lynn North and Central candidates (L-R): Richard Coward - Liberal Democrats, Toby Wing-Pentelow - Conservative and David Collis - Labour Party. Not pictured: Matty Hannay (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party (Image: courtesy of Liberal Democrats, Norfolk Conservatives, Labour Party)

'Since moving to Hellesdon I have re-energised Hellesdon Labour Party Branch using my previous experience as a district and parish councillor.

'I am also active in the Hellesdon Community Choir, and a steward at Mile Cross Methodist Church.'

Hevingham and Spixworth (LIB DEM held)

Marshland North candidates (L-R): Erika Coward - Liberal Democrats, Sandra Squire - Conservatives. Not pictured: Izik Kruh-Atar (Labour). Pictures: courtesy of Liberal Democrats.Matthew Usher (Image: courtesy of Liberal Democrats.Matthew Usher)

Nancy GARDINER (UKIP)

No details provided

* Dan ROPER (Lib Dem)

'I have been proud to represent the fantastic villages of Spixworth, St Faiths, Hevingham, Hainford, Frettenham and Stratton Strawless as county councillor for the past four years. I am a strong local voice working to make life in our villages better.

Marshland South cadidates (L-R): Coline Rose - UKIP, Harry Humphrey - Conservatives and Steven White - Liberal Democrats. Not pictured: Robin Mann (Labour). Pictures: courtesy of UKIP,Norfolk Conservatives,Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of UKIP,Norfolk Conservatives,Liberal Democrats)

'Many of my key priorities going forward are about highways: Making the case to cut speed and improve safety on Cromer Road; monitoring the impact of the NDR and taking action where needed – particularly through Spixworth, St Faiths and Shortthorn Road; getting a solution to the Crostwick Lane junction on North Walsham Road and promoting safety outside our schools.

'I live locally, have been a parish councillor and chair of governors at Spixworth Infants school. I have 20 years experience of working in criminal justice. On the council I have been Cabinet member for public protection; deputy leader and chair of the health and wellbeing board.'

Shaun VINCENT (Conservative)

'I know and care about this area a great deal having grown up in Spixworth and Frettenham and attended Woodland View School.

North Coast candidates (L-R):Andrew Jamieson - Conservatives, Christine Hudson - Labour Party and Simon Wilson - Liberal Democrats. Not pictured: Debbie Le May (UKIP). Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives,Labour Party,Liberal Democrats (Image: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives,Labour Party,Liberal Democrats)

'I have lived in Spixworth for the past seven years and play an active role in enhancing our village and community; as a parish councillor and having been a school governor.

'I am married with two children. I come from a career in financial services and now run my own business locally.

'I care about the future of our villages. I get personally involved in seeking improvements and am committed to continue to do so.

'I have a strong track record for action and getting things done; standing up for what is important and having a strong voice for residents.

Candidates for North Walsham and Erpingham (L-R): Glyn Williams - Conservatives, David Spencer - Labour Party, Irene Ramsbotham - UKIP, John Timewell - Liberal Democrats and Stephen Green - Green Party. Pictures: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives,Labour Party,UKIP,Liberal Democrats,Green Party (Image: courtesy of Norfolk Conservatives,Labour Party,UKIP,Liberal Democrats,Green Party)

'We all face big challenges over the coming years. In these changing times Norfolk County Council needs strong leadership to deliver the best possible services at the lowest cost to meet the needs of all our residents. I have the experience and knowledge to actively contribute towards achieving these aims.'

Philip WILLIAMS (Labour)

'I am standing in Hevingham and Spixworth (including Frettenham, Hainford, Stratton Strawless, Beeston St Andrew, and Horsham & Newton St Faith) and would be honoured to represent all the people of the electoral division.

'As part of a Labour controlled county council I am committed to the county continuing to provide and improve the services that makes living in Norfolk so great.

'Under Tory control many services have been cut and closed; children's services, youth service, libraries, museums, fire stations.

'A Labour controlled council must reverse those cuts. I will work towards reducing inequality and support non-selective schools so that our children grow and learn — I am opposed to selective education.

'For those of us living outside of Norwich an integrated transport service is essential so that we are not totally reliant on cars and everyone has the chance to take advantage of the opportunities in our wonderful county.'

Old Catton (CONS held)

Nesar AHMED (Labour)

'I have lived in Norwich for over 25 years during which time I have set up and run a number of businesses and have established many connections with the business community and other community leaders.

'I was the first Bangladeshi councillor in Norfolk when elected to Norwich City Council and have been a trustee of the East Anglian Bangladeshi Islamic Trust and the founder of the Norwich & Norfolk Bangladeshi Welfare Association.

'I have a strong desire to work on behalf of the community and will work hard to help everyone if elected as the county councillor for Old Catton.'

Jacky HOWE (Lib Dem)

As an experienced campaigner, Jacky was attracted to work in the city by the large-scale housing developments in Old Catton and Sprowston West and understands planning law and its potential impact on local communities.

'Jacky's career was as a development director of three national Housing Associations. She has been committed to public service since moving to Norfolk and stood twice in General Elections.

'Last year she travelled the county, campaigning for a more accessible police and fire service during her bid to become Norfolk's Police and Crime Commissioner.

'Jacky was the founding chair of Victory Housing Trust and is a board member of two Norfolk charities which offer support to vulnerable young people.

'A previous district and county councilor, she offers experience in key services such as adult social care and health scrutiny.'

Karen VINCENT (Conservative)

'I am standing because I care about this community. I have lived locally for over 25 years, I run a business with my husband in Old Catton and have first-hand experience of many issues facing this area.

'I share local concerns about the large-scale development planned nearby and its impact on our infrastructure; schools, medical services and roads.

'I play an active role in the community, holding monthly surgeries to listen and talk with residents and working closely with the local councils and Safer Neigbourhood Panel to help find solutions for issues that concern residents. 'I have the experience and local knowledge to serve this area well and if elected, I will stand up and speak out on issues that matter locally. I care about what happens in our area and I will fight to ensure our community gets a fair deal.'

Reepham (LIB DEM held)

Stuart BEADLE (Lib Dem)

'I am a bricklayer by trade who gained a degree at the UEA. I've developed the family damp proofing company since 1989 in Reepham division, giving me extensive local knowledge.

'I was councillor for Reepham on Broadland District Council and represented them on the Wherry Housing Association. As chairman of governors of Reepham High School, I personally oversaw the construction and opening of the 6th Form facilities .

'I am passionate about education and want the best delivered locally without divisive selection processes leaving local schools taking a financial hit.

'I am concerned about the lack of joined up thinking - on the A47 and 'missing link' to the NDR, and on the scandal of empty care beds here in my division whilst the NNUH is clogged with those needing them. As a businessman, I want to ensure that the county council delivers value for your money.'

Paul BROCK (UKIP)

No details provided

Ruth GOODALL (Labour)

'I've lived and worked in Norfolk for 36 years, my children went to local schools. I've been a parish councillor, village hall trustee, youth club leader and school governor. I know about the big and small problems that communities face, and I know how to work with people from different backgrounds.

'I've raised money for a village hall and play area, and successfully defended my community in council meetings and public inquiries. I know how things work and how to get things done.

'Attending parish council meetings over the last few months I've learned about the issues communities are facing: the NDR Western link, the Atlas Works proposal, the empty care home at Cawston, dualling the A47, the Food Hub proposal, and the impact of public service cuts on people's lives. As a county councillor I'd be committed to solving problems and getting the best result for local communities.'

Greg PECK (Conservative)

'Having spent a long career working as a Director of international businesses in Europe, Asia and the UK, I have spent the last decade as the chair of conservation charities trying to protect and enhance the Norfolk countryside.

'I will fight to ensure the development and infrastructure we need is built in the right places so the environment of Norfolk is maintained and enhanced. Providing adequate support and care for an aging population is essential. I am already working to improve the care and support for dementia suffers and those with long term health issues.

'I will make solving the problem of HGV movements and speeding through our rural villages a priority. I am passionate about supporting local businesses.

'I believe we must make Norfolk an attractive place for companies to locate to and grow. Thus providing more jobs and apprenticeships for our young people.'

Sprowston (CONS held)

Martin CALLAM (Lib Dem)

'Living in Sprowston and raising my family here, I am well aware of the issues we face. Although some are of very local, most are of a wider nature.

'The situation regarding housing expansion and our health service are good examples. Building on our open spaces has created alarm among many of our residents.

'Not providing the infrastructure promised when the original plans were submitted, still creates anger and frustration. I am determined to fight for the best interests of our local community.

'Another major concern is what is happening to our local health facilities. I am committed to working towards integrating the health and social care services in Norfolk into a single service with a combined budget. 'This will bring substantial benefits both in preventing people being forced to stay in hospital longer than necessary and making more hospital beds available to those who really need them.'

Bill COUZENS (Labour)

'My family and I have been residents of Sprowston for over 26 years. Our children attended Sprowston schools, we shop at Sprowston shops, use Sprowston medical and recreational facilities.

'I want the best for my family, that's why I'm standing to represent you and your family at the forthcoming county elections.

'Sprowston is expanding rapidly with new developments under construction or planned which will provide over 5,000 new homes. 'I want to ensure those new homes come with the appropriate school places, doctors surgeries, recreational facilities and jobs.

'Having retired from a senior position with BT I have the time and skills to devote to the task.

'I volunteer at the Dementia Cafe and am a trustee of Sprowston Senior Citizens Club. I have been a Sprowston Town Councillor since 2011 and have represented Sprowston on the district council.

'Please vote for me and I will represent you.'

John GILSON (UKIP)

No details provided

* John WARD (Conservative)

Born locally, married with two grown up children, John has served eight years as county councillor for Sprowston. Currently sitting on the planning committee and the communities committee which looks after the fire service, public health, trading standards, libraries and museums. John is chairman of the joint museums committee which oversees the county's 10 museums.

This past year he has also had the honour of being elected vice chairman of Norfolk County Council, a role that has taken him to all corners of the county and beyond and enabled him to meet many very interesting residents

John is also on Sprowston Town and Broadland District Councils and is involved in all aspects of local life which includes being a governor at Cecil Gowing School and doing voluntary work with Oxfam and Christian Aid.

Being a member of the National Trust and the Norwich Society helps form his opinions when deciding on matters of heritage and the environment.

John's priorities are to further develop the Diamond Community Centre, to keep in close touch with residents through monthly surgeries, and to protect the local environment.

Taverham (CONS held)

* Stuart CLANCY (Conservative)

'I have been your county councillor since 2009 and have worked with many local organisations and residents to assist them in their dealings with Norfolk County Council.

'I have always strongly believed that the council's role is to deliver services to residents who should be treated as customers of that service.

'I firmly believe that money should be spent on frontline service delivery, not costly bureaucracy or red tape process and procedures and that the council should be accountable to the residents of Norfolk.

'During the last 12 months I have been member champion for apprenticeships and have assisted in the facilitation of jobs and training opportunities for a record number of young people.

'I also strongly support the additional £25m proposed expenditure on adult social care; when people have contributed all of their lives through taxation the state should be there to assist them in their older age.

'I am totally committed to ensure that the residents of Taverham and Thorpe Marriott receive the public service they deserve and pay for and hope that I can count on your vote once again on May 4 so that I may continue to work hard on your behalf.'

Charles ISON (Lib Dem)

No details provided

Ian KELLY (UKIP)

No details provided

Trevor TURK (Labour)

'I care passionately about public services and about serving the public and look forward to representing the interests of all residents of Taverham.

'I care about providing the best education for all our children in all of our local schools and especially those with special needs who require additional resources.

'I care about looking after our elderly and vulnerable and the people who care for them especially those who do so in an unpaid capacity. 'I care about providing an accessible and integrated transport system that improves people's access to jobs and services and works for everybody.

'I care about creating and sustaining business and jobs that work for all in our area. I care about protecting our local environment for the benefit of us all. If you care about our community and want representation for all who live in it then vote Labour in Taverham on the May 4.'

Thorpe St Andrew (CONS held)

Dariush FASSIHI (Labour)

'Having grown up in this district, attended local schools and now raising my children here I have a great affinity to the area and want to be involved in improving it further for all of us living here now and our future generations.

'It was seeing the effects of the Tory cuts to public services first hand working for the NHS as a mental health nurse that got involved me in the Labour Party.

'The NHS has shown me the power of public services to improve the lives of individuals, our Labour manifesto shows how we can improve services on a wider scale across Thorpe St. Andrews and Norfolk within the limited resources imposed on us.'

* Ian MACKIE (Conservative)

'I was first elected to represent this wonderful area in 2005 and have worked hard to secure new school provision, highways safety improvements and community facilities. One of my first successful campaigns was to secure a medical use for the Dussindale Walk in Centre.

'I have been a long-standing campaigner against building on the Thorpe Woodlands and have championed employment opportunities for local young people via my work on the Norse Board and Town Council.

'Having worked in the area for over 16 years as well as having the honour of being the Town Mayor I have the local knowledge, interest and experience to represent this division at all levels of local government, especially at County Hall where I am vice chairman of the Conservative Group, chairman of the County Farms Board and formerly deputy council leader responsible for the budget.

'I believe in helping to build strong communities and I work with a number of clubs, societies and churches, as well as the police, in the area to keep Thorpe St Andrew, Thorpe End, Great and Little Plumstead great places to live and work.

'My priorities will be to continue to pursue a range of highways programmes from the Brick Kilns roundabout and a new path along Plumstead Road. The growth planned in this area must be supported by good infrastructure, both physical and social.'

Phyllida SCRIVENS (Lib Dem)

'As a biographer and writer, interested in people's lives, living here in Thorpe St Andrew, I am well aware of the importance of our local community.

'I am committed to work to integrate the health and social care services in Norfolk into a single service with a combined budget.

'This will bring substantial benefits both in preventing people being forced to stay in hospital longer than necessary and making more hospital beds available to those who really need them.

'I recognise that people with a mental illness have been getting a very poor deal from the NHS and other services, sometimes ending up with them being homeless or in trouble with the police.

'The dedication of our local Liberal Democrat MP Norman Lamb promoting better mental health services is impressive and I will make sure that the county council plays its part in revolutionising mental health care in Norfolk.'

Woodside (CONS held)

John FISHER (Conservative)

'As chairman of the Norfolk Waste Partnership I have led from the front to improve recycling and reduce waste but I still have aspirations for the future.

'By working with all councils across Norfolk my aim is to reduce waste further and cut of the costs to householders. As a town councillor I have a record of opposing development of Thorpe Woods, and have worked with planners to reject the latest application.

'I will support protection of front line services like libraries and work with all partners to ensure Woodside remains a safe place to live.

'The current drainage work which is nearing completion shows what success can be achieved by local councillors, MP Chloe Smith and Anglian Water all working together. This will alleviate the flooding experienced by many residents in recent years. I have lived in the area for over 30 years and I am active in the community all year round.'

Natasha HARPLEY (Labour)

'This is my first time standing for election. I decided to do this so I can be in a position to positively influence people's lives.

'I live here in Woodside and my children attend local schools, so I've a real vested interest in doing my very best for this area. After 15 years working in social care, I fully understand the importance of quality public services and the risks posed when they are cut to the bone, as they are now.

'I've worked hard all year and listened to local resident's issues. I want to be a strong voice for them and speak out about local concerns, such as Thorpe Woodlands, Pinebanks, our schools, buses and declining community resources.

'I make sure that I am accessible to people, so they can always have a chat with me - whether it's on the phone, in the playground or at the shops!'

Ean NEWBERRY (UKIP)

No details provided

Dave THOMAS (Lib Dem)

No details provided

Wroxham (CONS held)

Nick BALL (Green)

No details provided

* Tom GARROD (Conservative)

'I am delighted to have been chosen as the Conservative Candidate for the Wroxham Division once again in the forthcoming county council elections.

'It has been a privilege for me to serve as county councillor for the past four years. At County Hall I serve on the adult social services committee and until recently the children's services committee.

'As well as making a difference to our community at County Hall, I am also a passionate public speaker, writer and visionary through my work as a consultant on disability issues of which I have first-hand experience, having suffered with Cerebral Palsy since birth.

'I am also able to pursue my passion for giving opportunities to young people through my trusteeships of NANSA (Norfolk & Norwich Scope Association) who work to improve the lives of people with physical, sensory and learning disabilities; and The Garage, which is a centre for performing arts, supporting the creative journeys of participants, audiences and artists.

'I live with my partner Rebecca in Coltishall and in my spare time we enjoy walking our young miniature schnauzer (Teddy) as well as cycling using my adapted tricycle and spending time with our friends and families.'

Stephen HEARD (Lib Dem)

'I have lived in Norfolk for over 20 years with my family. Since leaving the RAF in 1986 I have had the following work experiences which I believe makes me the ideal local candidate to represent you at County Hall on a wide range of issues based on real work experience:

'Seventeen years in the commercial world; five years as a senior civil servant in HM Treasury; eight years in the NHS as a director where I still work' five years as chair of a national charity combating loneliness; eight years as chair of local campaign group SNUB successfully challenging the council on their plans for the Rackheath Eco Town.

'It was during this local campaign I spoke to thousands of local people and stood as an Independent candidate in the last county council election coming second.

'This time I've decided to stand as a Liberal Democrat as I believe they provide a real alternative to the current administration and it would be a pleasure to represent you.

'My priorities would be education, care of the vulnerable, health and social care integration and the provision of infrastructure to support a balanced and appropriate development strategy.'

Christine HEMMINGWAY (Labour)

No details provided

Adrian WYMER (UKIP)

No details provided

GREAT YARMOUTH

Breydon (UKIP held)

* Alan GREY(UKIP)

'It has been a privilege to represent you at Norfolk County Council for the last four years and I now ask you to re-select me for a further four years.

'Your UKIP councillors have made a big difference at Norfolk County Council since being elected in 2013, putting our county and those who live and work here first.

'We have been fighting government cuts which affect our police, fire, adult and children services that I feel are now cutting too deep, as well as scrutinising senseless and costly contracts.

'Parking in Bradwell, speeding in Burgh Castle, guarding against over development of housing as encouraged by government, Anglian Water flooding issues; these are a few of the issues that, along with other UKIP county councillors, I have been working on.

'The borough needs greater investment in roads, Norwich again gets another road (NDR); Great Yarmouth again gets

nothing. We need a stronger presence at county to make sure our borough's voice is heard.'

Carl SMITH (Conservative)

Carl lives and works with his family in Gorleston. In 2015 he was elected on to the Great Yarmouth Borough Council representing the Bradwell North ward. He has since served as a cabinet member and is currently chairman of the environment committee. Since being elected Carl has been working hard, dealing with the many issues that effect and concern our Local community.

Local elections are all about the community ensuring residents have someone who speaks up for them listen and help them with their concerns. Carl's concerns are our environment our economy and our safety. Supporting the residents to ensure they can access the services that they need which forms the very fabric of the local community.

Trevor WAINWRIGHT (Labour)

'I am married with three children and have lived in Bradwell for the past 30 years.

'Between 2001-2009 I represented Breydon as the county councillor, and was well known as a councillor who got things done, and worked hard for the community.

'During that time I led the campaign to stop housing development on the Lynn Grove Playing Field. Obtained funding for the footpath on Market Road, and instigated the 7.5 ton weight restriction throughout Bradwell.

'I am a Bradwell parish councillor, and chair of governors at Hillside Primary School.

'I understand the issues that residents face and what matters to them. Breydon needs a strong voice on Norfolk County Council to fight hard for the resources and services which we all need. I will be your champion, who always puts people first and works hard for you all year round.'

Caister-on-Sea (LAB held)

Penny CARPENTER (Conservative)

Penny has served on the Great Yarmouth Borough Council for the last two years for the Caister South Ward and has been chosen to be the Conservative Party candidate for the Caister on Sea Division for the Norfolk County Council elections.

Penny recognises and understands the important responsibilities of a working councillor. Crime and anti social behaviour blights our lives and communities and she has overseen two Public Space Protection Orders since being elected helping our communities be protected

Before retiring Penny worked for Norfolk Constabulary as a civilian crime reduction officer helping forge links with agencies within the town partnerships. Penny supports many groups and takes part in a multi agency group that pay visits to the vulnerable and elderly within the borough.

Penny is fully committed to work with all local groups who work tirelessly for the residents of Caister on Sea

Donna HAMMOND (UKIP)

'I was born and raised in Great Yarmouth and for the last 13 years have lived with my family in Caister.

'In 2016 I retired from the family business after 30 years and have now the time to take on a new role, one that, through my husband Paul being a councillor, I have realized to be vital to our community.

'The role of being your county councillor is something I have not considered lightly. I believe I have the skills developed over my working life to represent you in the way you deserve.

'My organisational skills, common sense approach and belief in community spirit will be the foundation of my approach.

'In order for me to take up this very important role as your representative at County Hall, I will need you to place your trust and vote with me.'

Christina HORNE (Labour)

No details provided

Harry WEBB (Green)

'I have lived and worked within THE Great Yarmouth area my whole life; currently in Caister-on-sea, just off Ormesby Road.

'I'm a former local councillor for Caister South. In 2015 I was selected to be the Green Party parliamentary candidate for Great Yarmouth, more than doubling our voting percentage.

'I have been involved in a number of local campaigns, committees and organisations, working to improve youth faculties in Great Yarmouth and fighting building companies who want to build on community spaces.

'I have always been extremely dedicated to creating a fair and just society, becoming particularly passionate about the creation of local jobs, youth facilities, and the environment and most importantly that the voice of local residents are listened to and that they are well represented by their elected individuals.

'A vote for me is a vote for a voice, not someone you will not see till next time around!'

East Flegg (UKIP held)

* Jonathan CHILDS (UKIP)

'I am grateful for the people whom lent their vote to me four years ago , I have tried my hardest to help all in my division.

'I have worked hard, been diligent and responded to request for help and support as quickly and professionally as I could have

'I have sat on many working groups committees and outside bodies , during my four years at County Hall I have not claimed any expenses thus believe I am good value for money

'The county farm audit and the 16 plus issues were brought to a head by my hard work , and desire for fair play and better service standards

'I believe I have made a big difference to my division and have challenged the sitting MP on many local issues , I like to think I am East Flegg and Great Yarmouth's voice in Norfolk

'I would be honoured if elected again and would carry on the work to help the rural area get parity with the rest of Norfolk. Vote UKIP for a voice unwhipped at County Hall.'

Ron HANTON (Conservative)

Ron Hanton was born and raised in Great Yarmouth and served the Local Community as a police officer for 31 years, finally attaining the rank of inspector.

During his career his postings included Somerton, Winterton and Hemsby, Caister (and the surrounding villages), Great Yarmouth and Gorleston. As such, has a good working knowledge of the local area.

A keen sportsman, for many years Ron played football for Hemsby.

A former leader of the Great Yarmouth Conservative Group, Ron also previously served as a Norfolk County Councillor.

Currently he is a Borough Councillor for the Ormesby Ward, which also encompasses Scratby and California.

Ron has devoted much of his life towards raising money for numerous worthy and charitable causes.

Currently he is the chairman of a local scout group.

Ron is a very experienced man with a proven track record. If elected, he pledges to work hard for all the residents.

Ken PETERSEN (Green)

'My name is Ken Petersen. I am 61 and moved from Leicester in 2000. As a Leicester City fan, I know all about overachieving and that, is what the Green Party intends to do.

'I am worried about climate change and the lack of action to protect our coastal regions. If we do not act soon, we will lose homes not just in the villages such as Hemsby, but also in Yarmouth itself.

'We hear of a new river crossing, ostensibly to ease traffic congestion. History shows that new roads merely add to the traffic levels. To cut congestion, we need to make the use of public transport a more practical and pleasant experience.

'The Green Party believes that, if we continue to do what we have always done, we will get the same results. I want to be part of a fresh start for our beautiful region.'

John SIMMONS (Labour)

No details provided.

Gorleston St Andrews (CONS held)

Tracey DARNELL (Green)

'My name is Tracey Darnell and I am a native and resident of Gorleston-on-Sea. My working background is as a nurse and counsellor, with twenty plus years knowledge and experience of delivering front line services in both health and social care.

'I am very familiar with the challenges facing our local services, community and environment, the impact of government imposed austerity and feel I can offer a fresh, realistic and honest perspective at county council level.

'Gorleston St Andrews is an area of mixed prosperity and needs and I am committed to engaging with and representing all residents equally and fairly. I believe strongly that the Green Party is a much needed voice of moderation, modesty and democracy in current politics.'

Kay GREY (UKIP)

'Your UKIP councillors have made a big difference at Norfolk County Council since being elected in 2013, putting our county and those who live and work here first.

'We have been fighting government cuts which affect our police, fire, adult and children's services that I feel are

now too deep, and scrutinising senseless and costly contracts.

'As a borough councillor for Gorleston ward, I have worked on many issues including parking on Bells Road and

Kennedy Avenue, lobbying Highways for more crossings to make our roads safer for our young and old alike, and pursuing the maintenance of our area especially the boating pond, cliff tops and roundabouts.

'Whilst I represent Gorleston at borough, my home and business are based in St Andrews, so both wards are a big priority for me.

'I believe that your vote for me on May 4 would give Gorleston St Andrews division a strong and clear voice on

local issues that affect us all.'

Graham PLANT (Conservative)

Graham Plant is the Conservative Candidate for the Norfolk County Council Election on 4th May 2017 for the Gorleston St Andrews Division. Graham is a local man, brought up and educated in Gorleston and is an experienced local councillor.

Dedicated to public service Graham will work to ensure that our public services are protected.

He said libraries and fire stations are essential assets for our community he will fight tooth and nail to ensure he protects them along with his county Conservative colleagues. He will represent your interests and is not afraid to speak up over real issues that matter. Over the last 17 years he has successfully worked with and helped many local residents with their various enquiries and issues.

As Gorleston expands he will be making the argument for more resources to improve the quality of life for residents.

Tony WRIGHT (Labour)

No details provided

Lothingland (vacant)

Carl ANNISON (UKIP)

'As a current borough councillor and a lifelong Lothingland resident, I am already committed to representing our community on a daily basis.

'Since the historic referendum result, I personally, as a local working class resident, feel that, more than ever we need a strong voice at county level to move us forward through the exit process. Your support would certainly help secure this.

'We all face hardship because of disgraceful government cuts. We have serious issues here in Lothingland which at times have made me very angry and upset. This is why I must stand at this election; to make real change and make your voice heard.

'Over the last four years our UKIP Councillors have made a massive difference at county level and this must continue.

'Working around our villages on a daily basis, I am easily approachable and will deal with any issues that may arise.

A role at county level will allow me to work on a wider range of issues for you.'

Andy GRANT (Conservative)

Andrew is 31-years-old and was elected to Great Yarmouth Borough Council in May 2015, representing the Bradwell South & Hopton Ward. He has been chosen as the Conservative candidate for the Lothingland Division for the Norfolk County Council elections.

Andrew is a qualified heating engineer and also has a NQV 3 in waste management and is currently employed at a local holiday park.

Andrew has always had a strong work ethic and healthy interests in community matters. He has proven to be a very dedicated and industrious councillor and is currently deputy chairman of both housing & neighbourhoods and audit risk committees.

He has a deep interest in local people and local issues and will endeavour to be a good community champion for all if elected.

Cara WALKER (Labour)

'I'm a part-time working mum of two children, part-time law student, and volunteer for a local free legal advice charity. 'Born and raised in north-east Scotland, I moved here eleven years ago. I instantly felt at home and became a keen supporter of the area.

'As a mother of children at primary school, I'm passionate about education and the effects of Conservative funding cuts that will have a major impact on our schools.

'My family background means I've always been a strong supporter of the NHS. The gradual privatisation of the service is particularly frightening.

'Health services in our area are under increasing pressure and the closure of Greyfriars Health Centre, opposed by Labour, has exacerbated the problems. As a law student and volunteer, I also advocate equality and justice for all.

'I'm always willing to listen to any concerns facing residents in the area, and will do my utmost to help.'

Magdalen (LAB held)

John ELLERTON (UKIP)

'At the EU referendum in 2016, an historic decision was taken both nationally and locally and your vote was part of that decision.

'Now on May 4 you are faced with the choice as to who will represent your voice at Norfolk County Council. I believe I am the best candidate for that job.

'If elected with the help of your vote, I will work hard to represent Magdalen residents on issues such as care and support for the vulnerable and ensuring services befitting the elderly.

'I will not make promises I cannot keep, but will ensure your voice is heard.

'I trust I can count on your vote. You alone have the choice to make your voice heard yet again.'

Julia MILLER (Conservative)

Local resident and charity leader Julia Miller, is standing as the candidate for the Magdalen Division in the Norfolk County Council elections.

Julia originally trained in the hotel industry in Norwich, but has now worked in the charity sector for the past 20 years.

Happily married with two teenage sons, Julia currently provides professional expertise to help charities to start up, secure funding and grow. Julia has a great deal of experience and a proven track record of working with residents, councillors, statutory bodies and community groups, bringing people together to find solutions to local issues.

On her selection Julia said: 'I am delighted to be standing for election, as I care deeply about our local community and am enthusiastic about using my skills and experience to bring about positive change.

'I want to help ensure that County Hall decisions consider the impact on local residents and supports our economy to grow, our community to be strengthened and our services to be protected.'

* Colleen WALKER (Labour)

'My name is Colleen Walker a mother and grandmother born and raised in Great Yarmouth .

'Having lived in the borough all my life working as a chef in the hotel and service industry I am well aware of the challenges facing the town and its residents.

'Poor transport links, a low wage economy, poor healthcare and deprived areas.

'I promise if re-elected to carry on campaigning for Great Yarmouth to receive its fair share of the resources.

'Norfolk is a large county but I have a loud voice and always make myself heard.

'The residents of the Magdalen /Claydon Ward face many challenges and I do my uppermost to help where ever I can.

'Being a board member of the young carers and MESH gives me an insight into the community. I am always contactable by telephone, email and I am always willing to visit residents.'

West Flegg (CONS held)

Gary BOYD (Labour)

No details provided

Kim MORRIS (Lib Dem)

'As a parent I believe all children and young people deserve an outstanding education. It is time to put a stop to the education postcode lottery and raise standards across the county.

'As a daughter, I can see the very real effects cuts to social care and health services are having on the elderly population.

'People who have worked hard for their country and this county shouldn't have to worry about health and personal care provision in their retirement.

'As a registered nurse and midwife, for over 20 years, I have seen first hand the effects cuts have had; the direct impact of understaffing in hospitals, and the closing of local medical centres has had on our community.

'As your Liberal Democrat councillor I will tackle local issues affecting local people. As a member of an open, tolerant and united political party I believe I can make a real difference.'

Haydn THIRTLE (Conservative)

Haydn has always been rooted in Norfolk, having spent his formative years in King's Lynn.

After leaving full time education he joined the Norfolk Constabulary, where he spent the next thirty years working in a variety of roles, as a detective, intelligence officer and custody sergeant amongst others.

Prior to retirement from the constabulary he co-ordinated the many facets of integrating asylum seekers into Norfolk.

Whilst with the Norfolk Constabulary he completed a BSc (Hons) degree in social science focusing on economics and politics. After retirement from the constabulary, Haydn ran a successful property based business for 12 years before standing as a local councillor in 2015. Haydn is passionate about the local area and the Norfolk broads, he is deeply concerned about the difficulties and pressures on local authority finance and the increased demands on resources.

Michael TOOMEY (UKIP)

'After 22 years in the hospitality industry I took early retirement in 2016, which has given me the opportunity now to focus my time and energy on local politics.

'Last year I was involved in the referendum campaign and one of the biggest eye openers to me was the electorate's discontent with the political status quo which has existed for as long as I can remember.

'Communities are tired of the same old faces representing the same old ideas. They want change.

'The only way to achieve this change is to elect new representatives who have the community's interests at the very heart of what they do.

'With your vote and given the chance I will do just that. I will make the voice of these villages heard in the corridors of County Hall and will represent you to the best of my ability, always putting the resident first.'

Yarmouth Nelson & Southtown (UKIP Held)

Lisa ALSTON (Lib Dem)

'I was born and brought up in Norwich and have returned to Norfolk after a successful career in management with leading global companies.

'I am currently training as a psychologist. I served on Norfolk County Council between 1989 and 1993 and took a particular interest in consumer rights and the running of the emergency services.

'I have lived and worked abroad as well as in the UK and am mum to two grown up children so I have a very wide range of experience to bring to the role.'

Peter FITZGERALD (UKIP)

'I am currently chairman of UKIP Great Yarmouth and have been a local retailer for 27 years. I have a good knowledge of the issues that affect our area and what is needed to resolve them.

'At the EU referendum last year, against all predictions, the electorate proved with their vote they hold the ultimate

power.

'You can use your vote again in May to send a signal to Norfolk County Council that you will no longer tolerate this borough being ignored and overlooked when it comes to investment and public services.

'With your vote and support I can become part of that team to deliver the change needed for Nelson, Southtown and

Cobholm areas.

'I hope to meet with many of you during this election and you can rest assured that, if elected, I will be representing

you 24/7.'

George ROGERS (Conservative)

George Rogers has been selected as the Conservative Candidate for the Nelson & Southtown division for the Norfolk County Council elections.

George is a keen promoter of our great local community, and considers it one of the best places in the country for families to live and grow up in.

He said: 'It is both a challenging and exciting time for all the community, but I believe that with strong leadership and clear policies, that are for all the residents of the community, both the local and the wider county will thrive and prosper in the years ahead and this is what you will get if you vote Conservative in the county elections.'

Mike SMITH-CLARE (Labour)

'For the past 15 years I have worked tirelessly to provide lifelong training and employment opportunities to Great Yarmouth's residents.

'I have established a network of support to help individuals gain confidence, qualifications and a supported route into employment and independent living.

'I recognised that there was a genuine need for a youth club to be set up in Cobholm and by listening to the views of young people, their families and local residents I was able to work with my community training provider to establish weekly sessions at the Cobholm Community Centre.

'As a local resident I am committed to making Yarmouth a great place to live in. I understand local concerns and work hard to put them right.

'I have campaigned for the rights of local homeless people as well as those who have been affected by the introduction of Universal Credit.'

Yarmouth North & Central (LAB held)

James BENSLY (Conservative)

James is a local man married with a four year old daughter and last year was elected as a borough councillor.

He said: 'Electing a county councillor to champion your views, support your neds and promote your interests is a very important matter to be considered as the county councillors you select will make very important decisions that concern your everyday way of life.

'As a local resident I understand the importance of ensuring that our local businesses and commercial areas remain vibrant and profitable and I pledge to work hard on your behalf.'

* Mick CASTLE (Labour)

'I live with my wife Babs in Yarmouth's Town Wall Road. As Labour and Co-op candidate again for the area where I live – Yarmouth North and Central – I am campaigning for better riverside flood defences, a regular bus link to Pasteur Road and Gapton, a new Special School for local youngsters with complex needs, for new affordable housing and for action to regenerate Yarmouth's Town Centre and historic Market Place.

'I represent Norfolk on the Environment Agency's Regional Flood and Coastal Committee, responsible for the multi-million pound programme to bring the town's riverside to a 1 in 200 year protection standard.

'I'm also on the A47 Alliance which is pushing for the dualling of the Acle Straight as part of the 2020-25 Highways Programme and for early construction of the 3rd River Crossing.

'This is essential to give Yarmouth the road infrastructure befitting a major port and holiday resort.'

Tony HARRIS (Lib Dem)

'I am 61 years of age, married with two grown up children who live in the borough.

'I recently retired after working for 30 years as a pharmacist at the Northgate and James Paget hospitals.

'I am actively involved with Yarmouth Town Football Club and with St Paul's Church on Salisbury Road.

'Far too often the whole of central Yarmouth and the by-passes and approach roads are gridlocked. This is totally unacceptable.

'The third river crossing is needed asap as is the dualling of the A47. I am opposed to year-round parking charges and I want local people to be able to fully enjoy the town's heritage and history.'

Chris WALCH (UKIP)

'I have been your UKIP borough councillor since May 2016.

'I strongly believe that UKIP Great Yarmouth has made a substantial impact in our borough.

'Unfortunately because of the financial constraints put upon this borough, we need a stronger delegation at county council, to insist that more funding is available to our area.

'My aim, if elected, is to work closely with our community alongside other councillors to achieve a better standard of living for our residents and address the ongoing problems.

'Using a common sense approach we can tackle the many so called historic issues that have for far too long been ignored.

I know that many residents are despondent after decades of not being heard, but with your help, I and other UKIP councillors can and will make a difference.'

NORTH NORFOLK

Cromer (CONS held)

Tim ADAMS (Lib Dem)

'The Cromer Ward always has a challenging issue that require effective representation. The Tories have continued to let us down here as they have done at County Hall with costly budget failures, such as the incinerator, and cuts to areas of the budget for the most vulnerable.

'In Cromer, Conservative held North Norfolk District Council have distracted themselves with things such as their failed proposals at North Lodge Park and Cadogan Road Car Park, which will fail.

'Meanwhile, children's play equipment has been allowed to crumble beyond repair.

'If elected, I will continue to work hard as I have done previously as Mayor of Cromer, representing you in every area of the county council's responsibility.

'The proposed changes at Benjamin Court Hospital, which could have profound impact on patients and staff is at the top of my agenda. I will continue to push for full public consultation on any changes.'

Mike BOSSINGHAM (Green)

'I am a retired Methodist Minister and my wife and I have made our home in Cromer for over 20 years.

'I was elected as a town councillor in Market Deeping and am a member of Cromer Town Council. I am part of the team that saved the skate park, serving as its treasurer, and volunteer at the Community Cafe in the Methodist Church.

'I have come to love Cromer over the years and I am committed to doing my best to make Cromer a good place to live, work and enjoy a holiday.

'We have here a very special culture of locally owned small businesses and I will continue to do all I can to support and protect this aspect of Cromer.

'I am also concerned about the proposed changes at Benjamin Court along with the development of the Cadogan Road Car Park and will fight against these proposals.'

* Hilary COX (Conservative)

'The remit of a county councillor is wide ranging and time consuming and I have the experience to serve you effectively at Norfolk County Council.

'My commitment to the residents of Cromer, Suffield Park, Felbrigg, Roughton, Thorpe Market and Southrepps is to serve the community on the communities committee which involves everything within the heart of my ward; fire station, schools, library, the fishing industry, highways and museums enabling me to continue the excellent work achieved over the last four years.

'The role of county champion for walking and cycling will continue, encouraging all ages and abilities to be active safely thereby promoting longer healthier lifestyles.

'Being actively retired myself I have the time, dedication and perseverance to serve the community to the best of my ability. I hope you will lend me your support.'

John DIGBY (UKIP)

'The people are the life blood of a democracy and deserve to have their say in government at the local level. The majority view should be voiced to higher level politics and eventually to national government.

'I am open and truthful with everyone that I meet and treat all individuals with respect whatever their personal circumstances are. We are all part of humanity.

'All law abiding citizens must retain the right to have the freedom to speak out against injustice and their freedom of speech is paramount.

''Ring fenced' overseas aid is an unfair tax on the people. Sending money to foreign parts should be on merit and not a government 'feel good' pledge.

'With more people in the UK below the poverty line, some of that money should be used at home.

'I will make myself approachable and available to all constituents that wish to contact me about any subject, grievance, injustice or worry that they may have and work to find a solution.'

Jane WORSDALE (Labour)

'I am standing as Labour candidate for the Cromer division as a long-term resident of North Norfolk and a recently-retired public servant, outraged at the effects of the government's policy of 'austerity' on our local community.

'Cuts across all public services are affecting our NHS provision (e.g. de-commissioning of beds at Benjamin Court), our education services (e.g. cuts to post-16 school transport for young people who wish to attend City College) and our social care services; an ever-increasing number (approximately 3000 per year) of our community needs support from the foodbank to survive.

'This is an unforgivable crisis: austerity is a choice, not a necessity, in the sixth biggest economy in the world. As a Labour councillor, I would join with others to fight the cuts.

'I will also promote the special needs of our rural life, including improved public transport and protecting our beautiful and unique environment.'

Fakenham (CONS held)

Imogen BRUCE (Labour)

'I have your interests at heart and will work hard to represent you. I worked in Fakenham Library for 13 years and in education in North Norfolk and the NHS so I am keen to support public services under threat.

'I was a Unison steward during this time too so worker's rights are important to me. I love amateur dramatics and keeping active and place great importance on the value of leisure and culture in the community.

'Both my children work in care and the struggle young people have nowadays to earn a living and be independent concerns me. 'As Melton Constable parish councillor for three years I helped raise funds for outdoor gym and play equipment. I look forward to the opportunity to represent you.'

* Tom FITZPATRICK (Conservative)

'I have been privileged to represent the Fakenham Division for the past four years.

'I believe in providing the best possible services as efficiently as possible. I support providing local community services; everything ranging from the excellent care and respite services such as those provided at Cranmer House; right through to our excellent local library.

'I worked to keep our local recycling centre open, as well as increasing what goes into our green bins and tackling fly-tipping and litter and will continue this work.

'I support growing the strong manufacturing base in Fakenham to provide economic security, as well as help new businesses get established and provide more jobs.

'Better mobile coverage, as well as faster broadband is still needed, particularly in our rural communities, and I will continue working on this issue.

'Your concerns are my concerns and I am seeking re-election to continue to work hard for you and this area.'

Hugh LANHAM (Lib Dem)

'I have lived near Fakenham for 14 years. My children went to school here and I am very attached to the town and to the area. Now retired, I look forward to giving my time to being a county councillor.

'The county council faces all manner of challenges as budgets are cut and the demands on its services increase. Particular concerns for me include: care; education, commercial vitality of Fakenham; the attractiveness of the area; roads and other infrastructure and affordable housing

'I will work hard, listen and use my private sector skills and experience to drive forwards the best outcomes possible for the people of the Fakenham division.'

Jenny OUTRED (Green)

No details provided

Jack SMITH (UKIP)

'I'm 25 and lived in Fakenham for four years, but Norfolk my entire life. My main concern for Norfolk is the protection of services such as the fire service, which faces more cuts this year.

'As your county councillor, I promise to vehemently defend emergency services.

'I will oppose vanity projects, and will callout and question wastage of public funds.

'I will support the committee system of local government, which ensures more transparency in the county council. 'Finally, I'll work with all councillors to ensure value for money.

'I joined UKIP in 2010 because I saw them as the best party to support true local democracy, promote common sense policies and ensure the people were listened to. That's what I'm going to do if elected. Thank you!'

Holt (UKIP Held)

Sarah BUTIKOFER (Lib Dem)

My family are from Norfolk and I returned here to my roots 15 years ago having worked overseas and in London.

'I am the leader of the Liberal Democrats on the district council and have spent more than a decade working for local people – including working as part of Norman Lamb's team.

'I care passionately about this area and its residents and I have the knowledge and experience to make a difference at County Hall.

'Over the past two years I have perhaps become better known for my campaign to improve road safety along the A148, and other rural roads.

'Many local residents already bring issues to my attention which fall under the responsibility of your county councillor which I am happy to pursue, but being your elected representative would give me a much stronger voice to support you.

'If elected I propose to leave my day job to focus fully on working for you.'

Terry COMBER (UKIP)

No details provided

Paula D'ATTOMA (Green)

'I have lived and worked in North Norfolk for 35 years. I live with my partner in Holt; my son and his family live in Hamburg.

'I have practised as a yoga teacher and yoga therapist since 1996, working for 10 years in the Norfolk Adult Education Department, for eight years at Norwich Prison and now in the wider community.

'Politically, my particular interests are in the provision of affordable housing, reliable and frequent public transport and improved access to local health services.

'I am concerned that recently too much housebuilding in the area has been beyond the reach of the young people who live and work here. North Norfolk villages are in danger of becoming exclusively for the well-heeled and retired.

'I believe that we should protect the planet from the threat of climate change for this and for future generations. We should reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, and increase investment in renewable energy.

'I am passionately opposed to fracking. If elected, I would do my very best to work with others on the Council from any party to promote socially inclusive, sustainable development.'

Richard KELHAM (Labour)

'Local government finance is being subjected to an ever tighter squeeze by the government in its politically motivated, and totally self-defeating, obsession with austerity.

'This has made delivery of vital services – such as education, and social care for the elderly and for vulnerable children – extremely difficult.

'I have been a parish councillor for twenty-four years, twelve of them as chair, a High School governor for twelve years, and a member of the committee of a local charitable housing society for more than twenty years.

'I know how the system works and, if elected, would try my hardest to make it work for the people living in Holt division.

'I believe that the state at local and national levels has the power to be a real force for good in peoples' lives – but not when it is in the control of this destructive government.'

David WARD (Conservative)

'Having been born and bred in North Norfolk I am very passionate about the area.

'After a 30-year career in the Norfolk Constabulary I retired in the rank of Detective Inspector and I have since started a one-man locally based business.

'My wife Lesley is a lawyer, we have three children and two grandchildren.

'I am not a politician as such but I want to represent local people on local issues.

'In particular I will: Work to improve investment in care for the elderly, the young and the vulnerable; to improve mobile phone and broadband coverage; encourage operators of public transport to provide more joined up services; work to support growth and improvement in local amenities and infrastructure.

'North Norfolk is a great place to live and I will work hard as your representative to ensure that it remains so and improves where necessary.'

Hoveton and Stalham (CONS held)

* Nigel DIXON (Conservative)

'I am Nigel Dixon, I was born and raised in Stalham; I've lived in Hoveton for 34 years and I worked at RAF Coltishall for six years of my career in the RAF.

'As a district and county councillor I have pressed for all levels of local councils to work more closely together with local MPs to get the best deal for local people, regardless of party politics.

'I am concerned that Norfolk develops in sustainable ways in keeping with its rural character, with houses in appropriate places, matching employment, supporting services and good transport links.

'I care passionately about the threat to the pleasant environment we live in and the withdrawal of local services.

'I want to see safer communities for the elderly and vulnerable, better education and training opportunities for young people and a good quality of life for everyone.'

Philip LIVESEY (Lib Dem)

'I am 29 and have previously worked for North Norfolk MP Norman Lamb. I stood in Hoveton at the 2015 district council elections, coming in second place.

'Born and raised in Norfolk, since September I have been on a law conversion course at UEA and I plan to work locally upon qualification.

'I am proud to be the Liberal Democrat candidate for Hoveton and Stalham. Because of Norman Lamb people know that it is the Lib Dems in North Norfolk who listen and get results.

'It would be a real privilege to represent those who live here and help to make a difference. If elected the first thing I will do is knock on every door in the division to ask what priorities residents and businesses want me to take up at County Hall.'

Michael MACARTNEY-FILGATE (Green)

'As a retired Norfolk social worker and resident of Catfield for over 30 years I love Norfolk. My children were born here, my wife, Anne taught in Norfolk and we are Broads Society committee members and active in our local parish council and churches.

'Key issues are the need for public transport, support for rural and town businesses and more public housing for all. North Norfolk desperately needs a green voice on the council to help protect our precious waterways, countryside and the people and other creatures who live here.

'If elected I would represent a wide range of views and especially strive to ensure the views of those in need and with disabilities are strongly heard and acted upon. Please choose Green this time- you know it makes sense!'

Mandy MCKENNA (Labour)

'I believe politics is very relevant at a local level and I am willing to listen to your concerns and fight on your behalf for improvements to your community.

'I am keen to represent you on local issues. During canvassing, I have become aware of the problems people have with flooding, drainage, mobile phone signal, dog fouling, transport links, ambulance callout times and social care.

'I am sure there are many more. This feedback will help shape my priorities should I be elected. I have lived in North Norfolk for 45 years.

'I worked as a teacher at Paston 6th Form College for 25 years where I ran the youth theatre and was Head of Expressive Arts. I am now retired and have the time to put energy into improving our community for everyone.'

Melton Constable (UKIP held)

Steffan AQUARONE (Lib Dem)

'I was brought up in Blickling and have spent 15 years as an entrepreneur. Now I do industry speeches and writing.

'I've always intended to go into politics, but I wanted to wait until I'd had some experience outside first. I joined the Liberal Democrats because I believe that power should be taken away from people who've inherited it or obtained it via privilege, and given back to people and communities.

'If elected, my two big aims will be around technology and health - to ensure broadband and indoor mobile phone signal for 100pc of Norfolk properties by March 2020, and to integrate health and social care services, with more spent on mental health.

'For me, politics is about doing things with people, not to them or for them. Vote for me and I'll work with you, whatever your beliefs, towards a better Norfolk.'

Annie CLAUSSEN-REYNOLDS (Conservative)

'I am a local person with local connections in the Melton Constable area, and my grandfather Bunn who lived at Thornage worked on the Melton Constable Railway.

'I have been interested in local politics all my adult life and was elected a district councillor for North Norfolk District Council in 2011 believing I could be a voice for the local people, and re-elected for a second four year term with an increased majority in 2015 and was chairman of the council in 2015-16.

'I am very aware of the issues concerning Norfolk; in particular North Norfolk encompassing the Melton Constable division.

My concerns for the division are very obviously the same as yours; highways (pot holes, grass cutting, speeding, verges etc), bus routes, second homes, affordable homes, jobs, communication (telephone, broadband), retention of amenities (shops, pubs, local business), care of elderly. And of course our beautiful countryside throughout the county of Norfolk. I will work hard to achieve and retain all.'

Alicia HULL (Green)

'I escaped from the bustle of London to peaceful North Norfolk in 1968 and have made my home here ever since, rearing four children, two of whom still live locally. 'I lived near Melton Constable for over 30 years and still have strong family and friendship links with the ward. I served on a parish council, started a playgroup and saved a listed building.

'I will work with other Green councillors to continue to oppose austerity cuts and protect the local services so badly needed by many on low wages. Also to improve public transport to increase independence and access to work and reduce car use. 'I will work to support local businesses. North Norfolk needs its own voice at County Hall to protect our special assets, the beautiful countryside and coast. Also to improve the safety of our roads against the dangers of increasingly heavy traffic.'

* David RAMSBOTHAM (UKIP)

'My core beliefs/principles on which I base my campaign are:

'Democracy - everyone should have a say and the majority view should be followed and 'bottom up' rather than 'top down' establishment politics should prevail.

'Honesty and transparency - I will be open and honest with everyone that I meet irrespective of class, race, religion or sexual orientation. I do not cheat or fabricate the truth.

'Fair play and social justice - People should pay their way but those who cannot look after themselves should be helped. We should control unnecessary overseas aid – charity begins at home.

'Independence and freedom - everyone should be free to lead [within the law] the life of their choosing. There should be freedom of speech and politicians should not be 'whipped'.

'No gimmicks just hard work -I am happy to be judged on my track record rather than 'hot air' and unrealistic promises.'

Callum RINGER (Labour)

'I am truly local, I live here in Bodham. I am the organiser of the Rock Bodham charity music festival which has raised thousands for local charities and good causes in the last five years.

'My local priorities include improving communication infrastructure, such as mobile phone signal and broadband, which have seen our area ignored for too long.

'I am also committed to protected our local pubs, shops and post offices, particularly the under threat community shop in Itteringham, and Melton country club.

'The shortage of affordable housing, and large number of second homes causes concern for local people wishing to remain in this area.

'I hope the people of Melton Constable division vote for the LOCAL progressive candidate, you would see the difference having a decent county councillor can make.

'In the last election I received more votes than the Liberal and Green combined - don't split the vote!'

Mundesley (CONS held)

Graham JONES (Independent)

No details provided

Edward MAXFIELD (Lib Dem)

'I first came to Norfolk over 30 years ago and I am currently living and working in North Walsham.

'Mundesley division stretches along the coast all the way from Bacton to the outskirts of Cromer. I have grown to know and love it very well over many years of campaigning for local people together with Norman Lamb.

'Protecting our precious coastline is hugely important but I also really want to see County Hall invest more in our roads and sorting out drainage in rural areas too.

'I have a passion for education – I am a governor at Mundesley and Bacton schools and a trustee of a charity in Norwich that supports children and young people with disabilities. Every child in Norfolk deserves the best possible start in life.'

Ray MOONEY (Labour)

'I'm Ray Mooney and I'm standing for Labour in the Mundesley Division of the Norfolk County Council elections. I'm a retired firefighter and have lived in the division for eight years.

'I'm appalled by the continuous cuts to public service funding by this government and if elected I will attempt to ensure that vital social care for the vulnerable is maintained and if possible improved.

'There are also problems associated with a rural division such as public transport provision and amenities for young people which need to be championed at County level.

'The future for work could be bright with the development of the offshore wind farm with its ensuing infrastructure. But this development needs to take in to account the environmental impact it will have on the area and therefore I will ensure local people have a voice in its planning.

'Vote Labour and vote for integrity!'

Fiona TURNER (Conservative)

'As one of your candidates for the Mundesley Division in North Norfolk, I have spoken to hundreds of people in the area in recent weeks. It has been a very rewarding experience.

'As North Norfolk becomes increasingly popular, we are faced with the possibility of more housing, busier roads and more tourists. People locally want to retain the very special social, cultural and environmental gifts we have.

'Many residents here are people want a vibrant local economy, have worked hard all their lives and paid their taxes. They want to see their money being well spent on services that matter.

'I think a good county councillor should listen to the hopes and fears around change, and represent their community in a compassionate and intelligent way. I hope and believe that I can do that for the people of Mundesley and ask you to lend me your support on May 4.'

Alexander WOOD (UKIP)

No details provided

North Walsham East (LIB DEM held)

Lynette COMBER (UKIP)

No details provided

Jacqui CROSS (Labour)

'I am proud to be standing in North Walsham East division. We are seeing a dangerous and unnecessary decline in the services that many of us and our families need. Financial savings cannot and must not be put before public safety and wellbeing.

'If elected as your councillor I will be a strong voice for local services at county level, I have a proven track record of working for local communities.

'I promise to stand up for you and your family. I promise that I will hold regular surgeries and be easily contactable so that I am accessible to the people of North Walsham and neighbouring villages.

'I believe in a fair society for all, and my experiences have taught me that we should never leave anyone in society behind. I will fight for fairness for all.'

Alex OLIVER (Conservative)

Alexander, 24, works as an office administrator in North Walsham and as a squash, tennis and table tennis coach.

Alexander is very interested in music and comedy, presenting a show on Norfolk and Norwich Hospital Radio and performing stand-up comedy, with regular slots at two Norwich venues.

Alexander also writes for and performs on 'Norfolk New Comedy Show' and volunteers on 'Introducing in Norfolk', helping new music artists showcase their work.

If elected, Alexander will support policies that increase jobs and opportunities for students in North Walsham and which will encourage the growth of entertainment in North Walsham.

Alexander is standing for election as he believes politics should involve young people and have regard to their interests and futures.

He believes that local policies are too often decided by people who are retired and who are no longer closely in touch with the needs and aspirations of his generation.

* Eric SEWARD (Lib Dem)

'I have been the county councillor since 2013 and live in the division in North Walsham. I have fought to protect local services such as keeping the local county council recycling centre open throughout the week when it was threatened with closure on three weekdays.

As a member of the council's social services Committee I want proper funding for the care services to our vulnerable and elderly residents.

'At a more local level I want to see plans to improve broadband coverage and mobile phone reception completed. There is a need to ensure that housing growth in North Walsham is matched by improvements to local roads and that the town's schools and health services are able to cope with any increase in population.

'Also, plans at the Bacton Gas Terminal for improved sea defences much be accompanied by similar protection for the nearby coastal villages.'

Jo TODD (Green)

'I'm Jo Todd. I am North Norfolk born and bred and enjoy what North Walsham has to offer me and my family. Our ageing population and rural landscape present challenges to services in meeting need and combatting isolation.

'I believe a strong, supportive community is very important and it needs to be backed up by empowering, nurturing and sustainable services.

'I will represent the things that matter to me: investing in education; county delivered services that care about the individual; promotion of fairness and equality; value and protect our precious environment and natural resources. We live in a beautiful place, I want future generations to enjoy it as much as we do!'

North Walsham West and Erpingham (LIB DEM held)

Stephen GREEN (Green)

'I have lived in Norfolk and Cambridge for 38 years and in Erpingham for the last 13. I am married and my two adult children both still live in Norfolk.

'I trained as a social worker and worked in a local authority, the voluntary sector, the NHS, then the Department of Health, for nearly 40 years. I have experience of how these organisations work.

'I am passionate about sustainability and equality. I believe the county council should manage its budget to protect public services and that we all should expect to contribute our fair share towards those services.

'Norfolk is a great county and I would work for better and more relevant bus services in North Norfolk, greening more schools and encouraging local food and transport initiatives.

'If elected I will work hard and co-operate with others, from any party, to progress the Green agenda.'

Irene RAMSBOTHAM (UKIP)

'I will listen to the people and act accordingly. We are a party which believes in bottom up rather than top down establishment politics. I will always put the people I represent and my country before my party – I can do this because UKIP councillors can follow their conscience and are not 'whipped'.

'I am honest, believe in fair play and will always support common sense policies.

'I am in favour of rationalising the various councils in Norfolk which would save up to £29m per annum which could be used to support the elderly, vulnerable children, the fire brigade, libraries and other hard pushed front line services.

'This is a fundamental issue which – like the Referendum on the EU – the other parties will avoid because of self-interest.

'I will not allow the objectives of my political party or anything else to compromise my integrity, position or judgement.'

David SPENCER (Labour)

'It's a two-horse race – last time I almost won this seat. There were just 38 votes in it. Since then I've worked tirelessly in the area. There's lots to do.

'Voters tell me they want a hard-working, dedicated councillor who will make a difference. I have the experience and commitment to make a difference here.

'My key priorities will be to: regenerate North Walsham to attract investment and business; ensure the area gets its fair share of funding for infrastructure like roads, GPs, schools, and new homes and to tackle the issues that annoy you the most – from road safety and potholes to litter and dog mess - and protecting our rural villages.

'I'll be visible locally, taking up your concerns. For too long this area hasn't had the councillors' support it deserves and needs. I'll be a strong voice to stand up for North Walsham West and Erpingham.'

* John TIMEWELL (Lib Dem)

'The government will all but cease funding of County Hall in two years and rather than increase council and business tax (which I am totally against) other income streams must be sought to replace the financial gap.

'We have to be proactive and successful in attracting new businesses to our county thus generating more business tax, jobs and house sales thus more council tax.

'I have been working for county to be business minded e.g. not just selling its assets off to generate money but to manage them to generate income.

'I have been and am engaged in supporting village life. Some examples are fighting HGV intrusion and speeding. North Walsham, I instigated the B1150/A149 relief road which is now in due process. I want to link that through the old Marricks Rope site, crossing the railway to the Folgate Industrial estate, 95pc of HGV traffic within North Walsham will be eliminated.'

Glyn WILLIAMS (Conservative)

'I have lived in Swanton Abbott near North Walsham for twelve years and am currently district councillor for the Worstead Ward.

'Over my twenty-seven years of working and serving in local government I have come across many cases when work between the county and the district councils could have been improved. Having better links to the local community through a councillor able to work at both levels has many benefits.

'Local councils are facing severe challenges. I believe my mix of broad local authority experience can make a real difference in creating new ways of working at both the local level and at County Hall.

'Local voices have to be heard when setting policies and plans for the future. I will ensure that happens, focussing on local community issues and the wider issues important to us all such as opportunities for young people and adult social care.'

Sheringham (LIB DEM held)

Sue BRISBANE (Labour)

'I have lived in Sheringham for 13 years. My children attended local schools and I served as a governor in our primary school. I cherish the unique character of the town and local area but, through my experience of living, working and campaigning locally,

'I am keenly aware of the challenges that local people face as a result of damaging government cuts to public services. I have a strong record of campaigning for better social care provision including services for elderly people, families and those affected by mental health difficulties.

'I have been a teacher and manager in post-16 education for 25 years and am committed to creating and maintaining efficient and effective public services as part of building a fair and equal society.

'I will bring energy and enthusiasm to stand up for my community to ensure that we have high quality services and a secure future.'

Helen DALTON-HARE (Lib Dem)

'In my role as chief executive of About With Friends, I am often at council meetings but now I would like to be in there making decisions and representing local people and your views.

'I live locally and enjoy our beautiful environment. I am keen to make sure it stays that way.

'I have many years of active service working on behalf of the community. Making sure we provide the best possible support for older people and those in need of care is so important and I believe I have the experience and drive to help ensure the right decisions are made as the county council faces some really tough decisions over budgets and spending. 'I have the active support of local MP Norman Lamb and Brian Hannah who is retiring after serving Sheringham and Beeston Regis so well at County Hall.'

Steven DE LA SALLE (UKIP)

No details provided

Julian DRURY (Green)

'I have lived in North Norfolk for over 30 years. Married for 45 years, I have two children and two grandchildren. Before retiring, I worked in haulage and plant hire, retail, social care and the NHS.

'My time in social care and the NHS, together with my wife's role as a volunteer and charitable trustee, has given me insight into the effect of the austerity cuts on vulnerable older people and the knock on effect on the NHS.

'I am a practicing Buddhist who loves walking in our beautiful countryside. Our planet is fragile and we are near a tipping point. If we do not live in a more sustainable way, there will be no future for our grandchildren.

'I will work hard to help ensure that the Norfolk that my grandchildren and their generation inherit will support and nurture human and all other life.'

Judy OLIVER (Conservative)

'I was elected, with Dick Shepherd, for Sheringham South in 2015. I have successfully fought on-street parking meters, and am dealing with the Shannocks Hotel.

'I helped deliver a new Tourist Information Centre and public lavatories and introduced a stronger planning enforcement policy. I ran a pedestrianisation survey which I have just finished analysing, and have ambitious plans for a new facility at Splash.

'But there is much more I want to do for Sheringham. I will fight for a roundabout at the top of Holway Road, my survey has received positive responses so far; I will work with our Coastal Communities team on ideas to enhance Sheringham's attractiveness and apply for funding.

'And I will help establish the Deep History coast initiative in our town as yet another attraction for tourists and residents alike. I will be better able to do these things and more, as your county councillor.'

South Smallburgh (LIB DEM held)

Michael BAKER (UKIP)

No details provided

Anne FILGATE (Green)

'As the only local South Smallburgh candidate, I feel passionate towards keeping/improving our rural environment (jobs, tourism, public services and transport).

'My husband Mike and I have lived and raised our family in Catfield for 37 years.

'With a varied/ stimulating teaching career as a KS1/2 class teacher & KS3 and 4 geography, French and SEN specialist I have wide experience to bring to the job.

'We let a holiday barn so I value sound tourism policy. I am a Broads Society committee member and we aim to balance local enterprise and habitat protection.

'In post-Brexit times, a vibrant sustainable rural economy is vital. If elected I'd press for budget protection of public services.

'I am guided by the Green words Think Globally Act Locally. This is an opportunity to carry this out!'

Richard PRICE (Conservative)

'I am Richard Price and am a retired hotelier/restauranteur.

'I have had the privilege of representing the people of Waxham Ward, Horsey to Lessingham, East Ruston to Ingham, for the last 10 years at North Norfolk District Council, where I hold the portfolio for housing and licensing.

'There have been four different county councillors in that time and I share the frustration several parishes have of non-attendance and lack of communication or support.

'That is one of the reasons that I am standing. I don't have another job so I can devote my time, experience and energy to serve the people of South Smallburgh and put this right.

'I know and care for the area and with my knowledge, experience and commitment I believe that I am the right person to serve the people of South Smallburgh. I hope you will lend me your support.'

David RUSSELL (Labour)

'As a former chair of the council I understand the pressures we face. Tory cuts are hitting local services. From schools to public toilets to refuse collections and the emptying of bins, I will fight to protect local services.

'As a former flood warden I know the risks here - more can be done to protect us by the coast and broads. Having worked with the Norfolk NHS watchdog I understand the strain it's under.

'Under the Tory and Lib Dems we've seen longer GP waits and cuts hampering performance of ambulance and mental health services. I will fight for the NHS.

'Having volunteered on the Older People Forum I can help find solutions to challenges facing our old and vulnerable. This includes improving transport to prevent rural isolation.

'I'll also put phone signal and broadband on the agenda - our villages deserve as much attention as big towns here.'

Clive STOCKTON (Lib Dem)

'South Smallburgh covers an area that can often feel neglected by the people who make decisions. I believe it deserves the strongest possible voice to speak up for local residents at County Hall.

'I served part of the area as a district councillor for eight years. In that time I played a leading role in battling against suggestions that some parishes should be given up to the sea.

'No one should feel left out or taken for granted when it comes to decisions about the future of their homes and livelihoods.

'I have run a successful family business in the area for more than 20 years – the Hill House Pub in Happisburgh. I also served as deputy leader of the council in my time on North Norfolk District Council so I have the experience needed to do the job of county councillor well.'

Wells (LIB DEM held)

Kara BETTS (Green)

'I have lived in Norfolk for 40 years and have four children.

'I believe the utmost care of the space we inhabit and replenishing our land, sea, air etc, so that they can provide for us and future generations.

'I believe we all need to take part in and take responsibility for our communities.

'I care passionately about mental health care for all ages but especially for children.'

Stephen BURKE (Labour)

'I have twelve years' experience as a local councillor and am actively involved in improving health, housing, care and support for older people in North Norfolk.

'My priorities if elected as your county councillor would be to attract investment in infrastructure for our rural and coastal communities such as better broadband, transport and coastal protection; to improve services for older people and children and families; and to enable all Norfolk's residents to benefit from our great county with more jobs that offer fair pay and affordable housing.

'Labour offers a real alternative to the other parties and will stand up for local residents.'

John DYMOND (UKIP)

No details provided

Becky PALMER (Conservative)

'My name is Becky Palmer and I am a tennis coach and local district councillor. I have lived in Norfolk my whole life and am passionate about the county.

'I am also a musician who performs throughout the year with two local bands supporting a wide range of events both for charities and local communities.

'I hope you will support me: I believe that all communities should be given a strong voice and that the key issues for everybody in the Wells division should be acted upon whether that be potholes, coastal bus services, broadband or anything else.'

* Marie STRONG (Lib Dem)

A while back a newspaper reporter cited a handful of people who had become councillors on the back of campaigning, singling me out as still campaigning.

'I shrugged off the description since '…trying to persuade people in the government to do something' seemed a bit above my status.

'Over Easter I was reviewing electronic folders on the basis that, if unelected, all could vanish. Interesting exercise. Amongst other things I was reminded that as a simple councillor I have inveigled meetings with government ministers on at least 10 occasions regarding flood sirens, schools National Funding Formula, Youth Enterprise Centres, Blakeney Marshes, Broadband, housing associations, mobile phone coverage – and there were even some successes.

'So maybe that reporter was right. In any case if re-elected I shall continue seeking outcomes one way or another to benefit people in my division and by that in the county. Campaigning!'

NORWICH

Bowthorpe (LAB held)

Henry NEWTON (Conservatives)

'I am a resident of Bowthorpe, and am passionate about making the area a better place to live for local residents. I was motivated to stand for election by what I see as a general lack of care by the council. Paths are worn and broken, grass verges are a mess, road sides are littered with rubbish, and children's play parks are in poor repair. I am determined to change this, and if elected would push for better maintenance in local communities by the council.

'The role of the council is to provide the facilities and services which residents demand. As a Conservative I believe this should be done efficiently, properly, and cost effectively. Bowthorpe and Earlham is the home of thousands of residents, and I ask for your vote on May 4 to ensure that it is a place in which we can all be proud to live.'

Michelle NEWTON (UKIP)

'I previously lived in Cloverhill, Bowthorpe for eight years and I was born in Norwich.

'I am 51 years old and served for a short time as a Special Constable at Bowthorpe Police Station some years ago. I am currently working in social care.

'I am VERY concerned about the high level of building in Norwich and the surrounding area. Often developers are using the five year land supply as a lever to get planning permission on unsuitable land.

'Congestion and air pollution is increasing in Bowthorpe, Costessey and Queens Hill. The level of building is also having a knock on affect at the N&N hospital due to longer waiting lists and visitors and out-patients often take over half an hour to find a parking space.'

* Mike SANDS (Labour)

'I am Mike Sands and Norfolk is my home. It is where I have lived and worked with my family, wife, two sons and two dogs. It has been my privilege and honour to serve as a councillor these past six years - four as a Norfolk County Councillor. 'As part of my community, Bowthorpe, I have been out pounding the streets, knocking on doors and talking to people about their needs and also most importantly, their hopes for the future. I have a good track record of supporting Bowthorpe residents and helping them with their concerns.

'As your councillor, I hope to serve our community for the next four years. I am ready to continue making a commitment to work toward a bright future for our county, in uncertain times.'

Silvia SCHMIDTOVA (Lib Dems)

'I was born in Slovakia, but have lived in Norfolk for the past 10 years. After studying economics, I spent my early career caring for children with physical and mental health needs. Since settling in the UK, I have spent several years in the care sector, but now work in the city at Norwich Cathedral.

'I am a mother of four children and have always had a passion for politics and was active in community life back in Slovakia.

'I joined the Liberal Democrats in 2014, and have been involved in several of the party's key campaigns. With Brexit now a reality, I believe that the UK and the EU must remain strong, constructive partners in the future.

'At county level, I have a particular interest in seeing sustained improvement in the performance of Norfolk's schools. Outside of politics, my main interests are history, painting, dancing and animal welfare.'

Nannette YOUSSEF (Green)

'When I moved to Bowthorpe as a UEA student, I quickly realised that the Labour Party representing the ward at the moment have become complacent and are failing to push for the changes the area needs.

'If elected, I would push for increased investment in public transport. The current bus service running through Bowthorpe is infrequent, making it unreliable for those wishing to use it on a regular basis.

'Although there is already a wide network of cycle tracks in Bowthorpe, many are long overdue for basic maintenance work, such as being resurfaced. This infrastructure needs to be properly funded so that cycling becomes a safer and more appealing option.

'The Green Party has been one of the most vocal parties campaigning for more mental health funding and awareness, and this is another issue I would focus on at County Hall.'

Catton Grove (LAB held)

Daniel ELMER (Conservatives)

'I have been the Conservative Party spokesman for Catton Grove for the last two years, in that time, our road network has been thrown into chaos by changes to the roundabouts on Woodcock Roadd and Fifers Lane.

'If elected, campaigning to put highways money back into essential services like pothole maintenance is just one of my commitments.

'Over the last few years our team has spoken to thousands of residents across Catton Grove to gauge their views about what is important to our community, and it is these conversations that will inform my priorities if elected.

'I want to be a councillor for everyone in our community, from Fiddlewood to Sprowston Road, from Constitution Hill to Hillmead, and to represent the issues that matter to us all.'

Michelle HO (Independent)

'For the last few years I have stood for UKIP. Now the Brexit box has been ticked I think it's time I for me to be even more independent and not be ruled by party politics and have a free word on local issues - not accepting the excuses from the ruling councillors of 'we can't afford it' or 'it's not our job' whenever anybody complains about local services or issues.

'I would like to see less dog fouling and better street scenes with priority on road maintenance road safety and better parking.'

Steve MORPHEW* (Labour)

'I'm proud to represent the area I have lived in for almost 25 years. Catton Grove councillors knock on residents doors almost every week, but most of the local issues raised with me are from people who see me in our local shops, at the bus stop or walking around.

'Although I have many years experience as a councillor in senior roles, I never forget who I was elected to represent and they come first. As a resident of Catton Grove, your problems are my problems.

'A safe, clean, prosperous and caring community is what we all want. With your support I will continue to champion Catton Grove and work with our community organisations and residents to keep making our area a better place to live.'

Tony PARK (Green)

'I joined the party in 1989 when I ran a wholefood shop in Dereham. I found the party's principles mirrored my own and I have remained a member ever since.

'I was elected to Dereham Town Council three times and to Breckland District Council for a four-year term. I was chairman of Dereham Chamber of Trade for two years, when I co-wrote a proposal that brought a local bus service to Dereham. I moved to Norwich in 2009 and have run an organic veg box scheme for the last 13 years.

'If elected, I will try to do my bit to make the world a less wasteful place and the county council a less wasteful council. I see many apparently pointless road schemes while driving about the city on my deliveries. We could use some of that money to improve public transport for all.'

Leigh TOOKE (Lib Dems)

No details provided.

Crome (LAB held)

Jonathan EMSELL (Conservatives)

'It is time for change in Crome, the residents have been let down by councillors that listen but fail to act. I have been speaking to residents that have the same issues and concerns they had in 2009, eight years and no action.

'As a hard working local councillor I am looking to bring about change, I do not want to be an establishment county councillor.

'We all know that money from county is being spent on road infrastructure but all of us that live locally see the traffic chaos around the Heartsease Roundabout every day.

'Community safety and safe places for children to play are also very important to residents.

'I see more housing being built on sites all round the Heartsease Estate but do not see the benefit for local people. I will fight for the people of Crome, making the community safer and making a difference.'

Judith FORD (Green)

'I am Norfolk born and was educated in Norwich. I trained as a doctor and worked abroad for several years. I currently teach in the School of Health Sciences at the UEA, focusing on palliative care and mathematics.

'I joined the Green Party on my return to Norwich, being impressed by the way the party cares about people, the environment and the world we will leave to future generations.

'My major interests and experience are in health and education, but I am also keen to protect the environment and support local enterprise in ways that improve quality of life and well-being for all residents.

'I want to become a Green councillor in Norwich because I love the city and want it to flourish. I am against the NDR 'road to nowhere' - it can only increase congestion. We need to hold our planners to account for the way they spend our money.'

Ian LEACH (Lib Dem)

No details provided

* George NOBBS (Labour)

'All political parties will tell you that they want to make things better. From 2013 to 2016, the Labour-led alliance running County Hall did just that – made things better.

'Labour led the turnaround in reputation, standards and effectiveness after Norfolk voters rejected the failed Conservative administration.

'Sadly since the Green Party handed back control of Norfolk to the Tories in May 2016, standards have declined, stagnation has set in and performance is being undermined.

'For the people of Crome as for the whole of Norfolk, it's a stark choice on May 4th – progress with Labour or cuts and decline with the Tories.'

Ann WILLIAMS (UKIP)

No details provided

Eaton (LIB DEM held)

George CULLINGWORTH (UKIP)

No details provided

William ROBB (Conservatives)

'I was born and raised in Norwich and have spent much of my childhood and University life in Eaton, I now work for the charity sector in human rights advocacy.

'Having stood as the Conservative candidate for the past three years, I have listened to residents' growing dissatisfaction with the current representatives sitting on the council.

'If elected, I promise to fight against further over-budget road works, such as the recent £700,000 'blunder' on recently proposed cycle lanes.

'The likes of such schemes appear to be going ahead without proper consultation of those living locally. Instead, I plan to invest money into already existing infrastructure which is in desperate need of rejuvenation but continually overlooked. This includes improving road safety for everyone both living within and travelling through Eaton.'

Jane SAUNDERS (Green)

'I have lived and worked in Norwich since 1984, and have recently retired after 30 years working as a solicitor, chiefly dealing with child care work. I have also been chairman of the local branch of Resolution, a family lawyers group.

'I am a member of Norwich Cycling campaign and was active in setting up a residents' association in Tombland Alley, which resulted in an improved green space in the city centre.

'I am standing for the Green Party because of its stance on environmental issues and social justice. I firmly believe that local authorities have a vital role to play in providing services and encouraging people to work together to improve society. I am interested in understanding people's concerns and finding practical ways to help.'

Ian STUTELY (Labour)

'I care about our community, about Norwich, and the future of our county, and that's why I'm standing as your Labour Party candidate for Eaton.

'The government is failing our schools, the NHS and adult social care, while the Tory county council remains in chaos with children's services, transport and education.

'If the Tories continue to privatise our NHS, hand tax cuts to corporations and the rich, while abandoning working people in the wake of a hard Brexit, the outcome for Eaton, Norwich and Norfolk will be devastating. We can't allow this to happen.

'I will campaign to protect our public services, health and education. I will promote our communities, the environment and equality for all.

'Please lend me your vote on May 4 so we can demonstrate that the whole of Eaton stands against Tory ideology of austerity and inequality, and all who support it.'

* Brian WATKINS (Lib Dems)

'I have had the honour and privilege to represent Eaton on the county council during the past four years, after serving 22 years as a city councillor. I was brought up in Eaton, so I know the area and the issues well.

'My primary focus has always been to ensure that the 'Eaton voice' is heard loud and clear at County Hall. Most recently, I have raised concerns about the transport 'improvements' on Newmarket Road and Eaton Village, campaigned to save the school crossing patrol on Colman Road and helped to prevent the further temporary closure of Leopold Road.

'As a member of the adult social care committee, I have fought hard to protect vulnerable people against cutbacks in vital services.

'I also chair the Norfolk Health and Wellbeing Board. This has given me the opportunity of working alongside other partners to improve the health and lifestyles of local people.'

Lakenham (LAB held)

Emily CUTLER (Lib Dems)

'I am standing for county council, as I want to make a positive difference to your lives. For far too long the Tories and Labour have been getting away settling on their woes, meaning a decline in local services.

'If you elect me to be your next county councillor, I promise to stand up for your interest in the county. I promise that I will take a stand on fly tipping, as everyone deserves to live in an environment free from litter.

'I promise to try and defend your local services from further cuts. I will encourage talks with local bus companies to improve transport networks across the city.

'If you are an EU citizen I will fight for your right to stay.

'But to do all of this I need you to do something for me. I need you to turn up to the ballot box on May 4 and vote Lib Dem.'

Brenda JONES (Labour)

'I am a retired mental health nurse with over 30 years' experience of helping people in times of crisis and need.

'I believe that all people deserve an equal chance in life and that this is best achieved by investing in quality social care and excellent comprehensive education. I failed my 11 plus and know how damaging that was.

'Drug abuse and antisocial behaviour are a huge concern and I will encourage co-operation between residents, councillors and the police to tackle this problem.

'If you vote for me in May, I promise that I will work hard for all the people who live in Lakenham.'

Tom SHERMAN (Conservatives)

Tom has lived in Norwich since 2016, relocating here from Oxford to read law at the University of East Anglia. He was recently selected to become part of the Bright Network First Year Lawyers Top 100 and is also a Union Council Representative, representing the students on his course at the Union Council and taking forward their views on a broad spectrum of topics on the council's agenda.

An advocate for community involvement, Tom actively volunteers at festivals, is closely involved in an educational outreach project, and has significant experience in the healthcare sector.

Tom will champion key Conservative policies including keeping council tax as low as possible, protecting frontline services, investing in roads, supporting vulnerable people through our ten year plan, and ensuring more opportunities for young people among many others, in order to best serve the people of Lakenham.

Eric MASTERS (UKIP)

'Lakenham, like Norwich as a whole, has been ignored by the Labour Party both within the city, county and nationally.

'In 2015 the city council resided over a status of area of deprivation for Lakenham ward and over the years in County Hall , like Labour the Tories have ruled without interference. Howeverfour years ago the county election broke the back of the conservatives and a rainbow alliance was born which UKIP was a major part.

'However the years of Tory mismanagement coupled with Labour in Norwich has not served Lakenham well. Here is an opportunity to start making Lakenham a Labour free ward and send a message to both councils that the people want their communities back with straight common sense talking councillors and not representatives who just tow the party line and are prepared to consign the ward to yet more under investment.'

Paul NEALE (Green)

'I was a city councillor for four years, and have always wanted to represent the Green Party at county level to help work towards a fairer and more equal society. I believe it is vital to scrutinise council decisions and keep the public informed, and will always challenge poor decisions by any party.

'I have campaigned to protect our NHS along with well-maintained social services in the community, and will continue to oppose the damaging cuts inflicted by the Tory government.

'During my time on the city council, I built a good reputation locally as an approachable and practical councillor. If elected, I will work for the benefit of all the residents of Lakenham ward, especially those not confident or capable of speaking up for themselves.'

Mancroft (GREEN held)

Paddy BALL (UKIP)

'This my second time in standing in the Mancroft area of Norwich South and unfortunately the problems are still the same - there is a severe lack of parking arrangements in this area generally.

'With most houses having two cars we must look at a permit system with allowance for visitors and not allow one household to monopolise the parking on a particular Street by running a business of selling cars.

'I also intend to force the issue of the local green spaces being refurbished and cleaned up for the local children with less dog fouling and better equipment.'

Gordon DEAN (Lib Dems)

'In my mind I am still a penniless 16 year old Irish immigrant who left an unhappy home in Dublin to make my own way.

'I lose my temper, at the injustice of the world, but am patient enough to try to make things fairer.

'I would be slothful, if I did not have countless things to diligently do.

'I have enormous pride, in my family, my staff and my business, comparison to which, gives some humility.

'I am greedy for everything, especially for knowledge, and take great pleasure in giving.

'I envy those who do not worry, and try to be kind to those who struggle

'Certainly lust, but married 25 years now.

'Often gluttony, on a Sunday for a big roast, and although age has forced some temperance on me , I still like a good drink now and then.

'Enough said. Passionately opposed to Brexit and homelessness.'

Danny DOUGLAS (Labour)

'I've lived in Norwich for decades and am heavily involved in the community. I have played my part in Norwich being a school and college governor, chief executive of a local charity and organising collections for the foodbank.

'I am elected your representative to the Co-op and work to ensure our community has Cooperative alternatives for all their goods and services.

'I campaigned locally against anti-social behaviour and the withdrawal of the cheap sessions for pensioners at the Vue cinema.

'I have worked to maintain bus services for communities across the country by working for local authorities, communities and founding a not for profit bus company - which has carried over a million passengers in four years.

'I would work to ensure frequent bus services to all areas of the ward, grow the number of residents groups and ensure parents had access to schools that shared our cohesive community values.'

Samantha ENGLAND (Conservatives)

'I work as a health and social care assessor. In my spare time I volunteer for a number of charities including the Norwich MS society MSTCN, New Routes and Leeway. I also work on mental health projects in schools with the YMCA.

'I am a member of the Independent Advisory Group for Norfolk Constabulary and chair their ethics committee.

'I support a 'free at the point of delivery' health care service and back quality and innovation within the NHS. I am a member of the patient and Community Advisory Group to Norwich Clinical Commissioning Group.

'I live in the centre of Norwich with my husband Mike, I love Norwich and feel very blessed to live in such a great city. I am committed to making a difference in people's lives and want us all to live in a community where we can all feel safe, and proud off.'

Martin SCHMIERER (Green)

'I was first elected to represent Mancroft (the city centre, Dereham Road and Anglia Square part of Norwich) in 2015. Since then it has been a pleasure to meet so many residents and business owners, listen to your views and try to help with your concerns.

'This experience should help me to be an effective representative for residents on the county council too.

'As a city councillor, I have been campaigning on a variety of issues, such as better public transport and safer streets for pedestrians and cyclists. I have also worked hard to help market traders and other local business owners.

'If elected to the county council, my three priorities will be: firstly to provide better public transport for residents of Norwich; secondly to reduce poverty and oppose cuts to key public services; and thirdly to tackle anti-social behaviour, such as drug dealing and flytipping.'

Mile Cross (LAB held)

Deborah GIHAWI (Independent)

I am from Norwich and I attended local schools including Hellesdon (Secondary Modern). My first job was at Hellesdon Hospital before going to London to finish my psychiatric nursing. I returned to live in Mile Cross and both of my children went to local schools.

'My children have moved on and I stood in city council and Norfolk County council for a combination of seven years as a Labour councillor.

'I am running for council again but this time as an independent and will remain working for the NHS in the community mental health team - a job I really love.

'I made a difference to many people's lives as a councillor and I want to return without the constraints of a political party.

'I want to represent people and to be their voice and not the voice of any political group. I want to take forward local issues and hold the council accountable to more transparency.'

Alex JACKSON-DENNIS (Conservative)

'Growing up in a small village on the south east coast of Norfolk I had a relatively self-contained childhood, mainly consisting of building swings in the woods. But as I got older and began to explore Norfolk I came across its historic market towns, unrivalled cultural interest sites and warm people.

'What else could I do but gain a passion for wanting to be part of this county of ours? It was then that I realised running for county council is something I needed to do.

'Fighting to keep council tax as low as possible, and making sure we protect vital frontline services such as libraries and emergency fire services, so they are available to all, are my two main aims and I intent to fight for them every second if people place their trust in me to represent them.'

David ROWELL (UKIP)

No details provided

* Chrissie RUMSBY (Labour)

'I am standing in Mile Cross Division as I feel that Mile Cross needs a strong voice at County Hall which will work hard to improve services for the people.

'Since being elected in 2015 I have worked hard to protect the fire service,libraries, and children centres.

'I have been a part of working groups that have devised strategies to improve public health and training for practitioners that work with children. 'As a mental health nurse I have been able to transfer my knowledge and skills to improve services and stand up for those who need a voice.

'As a Labour/ Cooperative candidate I have access to a network of people that work locally and nationally to promote and create community organisations where there is need.

'I have a network of councillors on both county and city to help me make improvements much needed in Mile Cross.'

Lisa SHAW (Green)

'I have been a Green Party member since 2014 and stood in Mile Cross for the first time last year, having lived in the ward for 10 years. I am secretary of the Mile Cross Festival Committee and I do community work in my area.

'As a mother of two, I have deep concerns about the future and the environmental legacy we will pass on to future generations - that's why I joined the Green Party.

'I believe in community spirit, helping one another and getting people together. If elected, I would use my role as a councillor to support my local community.

'I would work to improve public transport and conditions for cyclists and pedestrians in order to reduce traffic, which is a huge problem in Norwich. I would also work to provide better wheelchair access to local shops.'

Magdalena SIWIEC (Lib Dem)

'I am from Poland and been living in Norwich for the last eight years. I have worked in healthcare for the last six years looking after elderly and disabled individuals.

'I recently joined the Lib Dems and it was one of the best decisions in my life.

'I believe that everyone in the society should be respected and valued despite where they come from.

'I strongly believe that EU nationals bring a massive contribution to UK's economy and their rights and residence should be guaranteed in the event of the UK leaving the European Union.'

Nelson (GREEN held)

Jess BARNARD (Labour)

'I am standing in my home ward Nelson to be a strong voice at County Hall for residents, making sure Nelson continues to be a great place to live by listening to the needs of all residents and representing all residents.

'I will be part of a progressive Labour led council that works to modernise outdated services such as our public transport, encourage investment, creating more jobs and better, fairer opportunities for our young people, further our work to keep Childrens centres and fire services open, and passionately oppose environmentally regressive policies, like fracking.

'Electing a Labour council is vital to protect our frontline services and the most vulnerable in our communities from vicious Tory austerity.

'In partnership with employers we will make Norfolk a carer friendly county, along with improving support for vulnerable children; hiring more front line social workers and guaranteeing mental health support in schools.'

David FAIRBAIRN (Lib Dem)

'I have lived in Norwich for the past 25 years, and work at the Institute of Food Research.

'I am happy to defend the Rainbow Alliance for its three years in office, as it coped relatively well with the challenges it faced.

'With the exception of adult social care, most areas of its responsibility were improving.

'It was frankly unbelievable that the four green councillors, by abstaining in a crucial vote last May, enabled the Conservatives to take the leadership of the county council. The Tories are keenly supportive of the Northern Distributor Road and the incinerator, both anathema to the Greens.

'From 2021 all local government spending will be paid for from business rates. Even a relatively prosperous place like Norwich will struggle, and it will put an intolerable burden on local shops and businesses. This is one of George Osborne's cunning plans which has still to come home to roost.'

Tim JONES (Green)

'I believe the core values and beliefs of the Green Party provide the politics Britain needs. Wellbeing has been neglected in the pursuit of immense wealth for a few and austerity for the rest. Green values offer a world that's fair for all - for right now and for future generations.

'The Greens have built a reputation in Nelson ward as the hardest-working ward councillors who take the greatest interest in the needs of residents. As a city councillor since 2014 - and a Nelson resident - I am proud to be a part of that.

'I want to provide a strong Green voice at County Hall, opposing austerity policies and making sure the council works to safeguard the environment for future generations. I would also look at how the council can do more to welcome refugees, especially children.'

William RICHARDSON (Conservative)

'As a local resident in Nelson I care deeply about the issues affecting out area. The year before last I worked on behalf of Cancer Research UK fundraising for a very worthwhile cause.

'In 2014 I interned with Conservative MEP Emma McClarkin in the European Parliament in Brussels assisting with constituency queries and complaints. 'This has prepared me well for challenging institutions to bring about the best possible outcomes for residents. I have great belief in bringing value to taxpayers both with high quality efficient services, and low tax burdens for hard-working taxpayers. With my experience and your help I believe this is achievable.'

John YOULES (UKIP)

'I will fight to reverse the disgraceful cuts to essential services provided by Norfolk County Council, particularly for social care and the fire and rescue service.

'The money should be found from the £272m a year Norfolk taxpayers contribute to foreign aid, much of which is lost in corruption, and to the European Union, which we voted to put a stop to in last year's referendum.'

Sewell (LAB held)

* Julie BROCIEK-COULTON (Labour)

'I have served as a city councillor for 13 years and a county councillor for four.

'I work very hard for my local community. We saved the Silver Rooms that I now manage as the Silver Road Community Centre. This is a great facility for the local residents.

'I am Secretary of The Friends of Norwich in Bloom and competition organiser. We have achieved so much for Norwich with Awards of achievement for our environment.

'I am secretary for the Sewell Community Group. I run Sewell Toy Library which gives children aged 0-5 years a chance to hire toys at 50p per week.

'I am a Guider of 27th Norwich Rainbow Pack and started my own pack 12 years ago. This is now situated at Silver Road Community Centre.

'I am the carers champion for Norfolk County Council and have helped to raise their profile.'

Ian CHAPMAN (Green)

'I've been a member of the Green Party for four years and I am an active campaigner in my local area. I recently helped work on the Old Catton Neighbourhood Plan. I have also been an activist for Norfolk Living Streets and Norwich Cycling Campaign.

'In Norwich, transport is the key area I'd like to see improved. There is a disproportionate amount of money spent in Norfolk on building new roads rather than improving existing facilities for all road users.

'Better cycle infrastructure could be built by diverting money from the roads budget and doing proper and detailed consultation with cyclists so that schemes are well designed.

'We also need to do a lot more to encourage walking. Simple things like cutting back hedge and trees would make footpaths so much more attractive.'

Robin SEAR (Conservative)

'I am 64 years old, a retired garage proprietor, having been in the motor trade for 40 years, and having owned and run the Angel motor company in Angel Road and the Sear Corner MOT Centre in Aylsham Road.

'I have mainly lived in the Hellesdon area, but recently built a new house in Magdalen Road, where we resided for two years, enjoying the area very much.

'I am interested in local politics, and currently hold the position of parish councillor for Hellesdon South, which I find enjoyable and interesting; hence I wish to enlarge my experiences with my connections to Sewell, with the hope that I can make a difference for the inhabitants of the area.

'The Conservative Party is enjoying a high at the moment, so now is the time to get on with business and for me to make a difference.'

Alice THOMSON (Lib Dem)

'I have always wanted to help others. I studied to become a teacher, hoping to help those who struggled with learning. After a few years of teaching I was diagnosed with a chronic illness.

'In 2011 I moved to Norwich to be closer to family. I was sad to give up school teaching, and became a self-employed TEFL teacher; my student were mainly European adults.

'Brexit hit them hard, and with such uncertainty for their future, I lost my students, and my job. This is why I joined the Liberal Democrats.

'With my personal insights into education and the NHS. I could really make a positive difference. Over the years, I have been involved in different charities, including Norwich FoodCycle, The Children's Society and Nepal Schools Trust. I also write in The Norwich Radical. Now able to manage my condition, I want to do more to help my community.'

Glenn TINGLE (UKIP)

'I would like to see a much more sensible approach to traffic management in the Sewell area.

''Rat runs'should have average speed cameras placed instead of costly and aggressive speed control bumps which would benefit emergency vehicles and reduce emissions as it would eliminate the 'speeding up and slowing down'.

'I would also like to give certain roads referendums on whether they would like a one way system, especially areas like Gertrude Road where these is a bus route. I would not like to see the bus company cancel certain routes because of this 'bottle neck' type congestion

'Another issue I have is to prioritise the eradication of all kinds of domestic abuse and seek extra funding to help with this.'

Thorpe Hamlet (Was GREEN held, although incumbent defected to CONS)

Stephen BARBER (Conservative)

'My name is Steve Barber and I am your candidate for Thorpe Hamlet. I was born on St Leonard's Road and currently live and own my business in Thorpe Hamlet.

'I am proud to live and work in Norwich and I think it's a fantastic city, but so much more could be done to improve everyday life for our community.

'I feel that the current council wastes too much money on unnecessary projects which they don't always get the best deal for. 'As a leaseholder, I feel that they do not treat us fairly or listen to our concerns. I can see where improvements can be made and in my job role I work hard with the police and other businesses to make these a reality and Norwich safer. I want to continue doing this and more, listening to you; the voters and be your voice within the council.'

Lesley GRAHAME (Green)

'I have lived in Thorpe Hamlet for 37 years. I'm very proud to represent the area already as a city councillor, and to work in the NHS.

'As a nurse, I see how government cuts harm people. The first requirement of a nurse is to do no harm. My Green politics are simply public health by other means.

'Our society needs the Green Party's new perspective. We must change direction to reduce inequality, tackle climate change and think more long term.

'I strongly believe that decisions should be made at local level, and I'm passionate about helping communities to improve their neighbourhoods and play an active part in our democracy.

'If elected, I will use my role at County Hall to promote a thriving local economy, through supporting community energy projects and local food production as well as campaigning for more employers to pay a real living wage.'

Chris JONES (Labour)

'I've never been a politician - as an NHS consultant I worked to help vulnerable people and protect our communities from the devastating impact of mental illness.

'I know that our vital services will only flourish if people fight for them. Council services provide essential social care and support but they are under threat as never before. I wouldn't be doing my best as a doctor if I didn't stand up for the fairer and more caring society that I believe in.

'I worked with mentally disordered offenders to make our communities safer: the county council and the police must work better together to tackle antisocial behaviour and crime in our communities.

'I went to a state comprehensive before going to medical school and I'm horrified by the prospect of reintroducing the 11-plus. We need an education system that works for all our children, not just a select few.'

Nick LANSDELL (UKIP)

No details provided

Sarah TUSTIN (Lib Dem)

'I was a teacher and moved to Norwich to do a Masters degree at UEA.

'I feel very strongly about education issues and would concentrate on them if I am elected to the county council. I believe that education is not an area where you can cut corners without having serious consequences for the future of our children. 'Governments tinkering with types of school is also a distraction from increasing standards.

'Lib Dems in government put money in the schools that needed it most through the Pupil Premium, but the Tories are slashing vital funding through this round of cuts.'

Town Close (LAB held)

James ANTHONY (Lib Dem)

'I've grown up in the Norwich area and currently live in the centre of Town Close, so I know what it's like to be a resident here.

'Since standing to represent Town Close last year, I have been surveying households, knocking on doors, and keeping in contact with members of the community about their concerns.

'I understand people here want to see improved mental health and social care services for Norfolk, better protections for school funding, and genuine consultation about council projects such as the proposed closure of the Newmarket Road crossing. 'I will fight for these issues and stand up for Town Close residents.

'I want to be on the council alongside other Liberal Democrats with a strong record of helping local people. I know the area, the residents, and the problems they face – electing me as a hard-working Liberal Democrat is the best choice for Town Close.'

Mary CHACKSFIELD (Conservative)

'If I was elected as county councillor for Town Close I would stand up in the committee rooms of County Hall fighting for issues that are important to those of us who live here.

'This means ensuring the roads, pavements, drains, grass verges, trees, street signs, lampposts and kerbs are kept in good order.

'I would work with our police force to keep crime under control and promote neighbourhood watch schemes. I would put Town Close high up on the agenda of Norwich Highways Agency Committee to ensure the area is not used as a rat-run and I would prevent decisions being made about road and traffic control alterations, pollution, cycle tracks and parking restrictions without proper consultation with local residents.

'I take a straightforward, pragmatic approach to solving problems and focus on the issue in hand, I don't play politics, I get things done.'

* Emma CORLETT (Labour)

'I'm a nurse and mental health campaigner who lives in Town Close, working extremely hard all year round. I've earned a reputation for being friendly, visible, accessible and someone who gets things done.

'I'm proud of what I've achieved as your county councillor over the last four years. From setting up a weekly community cafe and a local charity, to helping to solve hundreds of individual problems for residents.

'I'm also proud of what the Labour-led alliance achieved; keeping all of our children's centres, libraries and fire stations open - which is something our neighbouring tory councils failed to do.

'The biggest imminent threat to Norfolk is the 'sustainability and transformation plan' which will put many of our health and social care services as risk.

'My 23 years experience in health and social care makes me by far the best candidate to scrutinise these plans on behalf of the public.'

Phil DI PALMA (Green)

'I joined the Green Party because I believe society should be organised for the benefit of the majority without sacrificing the environment in the process. I want to become a councillor to make a positive difference to the lives of the people of Norwich.

'I worked for Aviva for 15 years and have also worked with various local charities. I live in Town Close ward and know it well, and would do my best to be an effective representative for all residents.

'A particular priority for me would be to improve the way Norfolk and Suffolk Mental Health Trust operates. I would also campaign for more social housing, built to the highest energy efficiency standards.'

Anthea RULE (UKIP)

No details provided

University (LAB held)

Toby BENNETT (Lib Dem)

'I am a student myself so have a unique insight to the current life and stresses that students deal with. I am suited to this position because I'm extremely passionate about helping involve younger people in politics, especially in this tumultuous time of uncertainty.

'I want to focus on making sure your frontline services get the support they deserve to deliver the best support to the people of Norfolk. I will also work to ensure that back office management services provide value for money.

'My main passions are to improve children's services and adult social care. Mental health is especially close to my heart, having dyed my hair in the 'Blonde for Mind' campaign.

'I give you my absolute commitment to work hard on your behalf as your elected county councillor.'

Rob LOWE (UKIP)

'I spent my formative years living in this lovely part of the city from the 1970s-1990s.

'An active supporter of UKIP for several years I campaigned extensively in the lead-up to Brexit – a decision which will ensure a fairer, brighter and more diverse future nationally.

'However, recent manifesto pronouncements made by the party's leaders concerning Islam go against my core value of fairness for all citizens regardless of race, gender, beliefs or sexuality.

'Among other issues, as councillor I would seek to re-examine the unsatisfactory local highway infrastructure for all road users, removing traditional traffic calming in favour of average speed systems, thereby minimising vehicle damage, lowering pollution and creating smoother traffic flow, while allowing optimum access for the emergency services.

'Cycle routes can be separated from the main carriageway improving safety. For all matters, small or large, I would be the eyes, ears and voice for University ward.'

Lewis MARTIN (Green)

'I want to become a Green councillor in Norwich to help create a fairer, more sustainable future for our city. As a UEA student, I was part of the university's Fossil Free campaign for divestment from fossil fuel companies, as well as various other campaigns.

'I believe the skills I have developed during these campaigns can help me support local communities in campaigning on the issues that affect them.

'My priority if elected would be to increase funding for mental health services. There is a mental health crisis in the UK and yet instead of addressing this, the government continues to cut funding.'

David ROWNTREE (Labour)

'My name is Dave Rowntree, I'm a musician and a solicitor.

'I'm standing in University ward, because I want the council to turn the street lights back on. Lighting the streets is as basic as collecting the rubbish, but the Tories have turned the lights off!

'It's bad for drivers, bad for pedestrians and a bad way of saving money.

M'any residents work in the hospital, many work or study at the university. Many others work shifts or anti-social hours, and having working street lights on our way to or from home makes the journey easier, faster and safer.

'It's also a terrible way to save money. Investing in new low-power lights saves far more in the long run than turning the lights off early.

'Please vote for me and help me turn the lights back on!'

Gary WALSH (Conservative)

'Through living in the University ward and attending the University of East Anglia, I've gained an understanding of the issues in this area.

'This coming July I will graduate from UEA with a degree in politics, and have been actively campaigning in Norwich through the duration of my time at university.

'I believe in working hard for the residents of Norwich in order to gain the taxpayers excellent value for money; improving services through increasing efficiency, and listening to the direct concerns of residents in the area to put their needs first.'

Wensum (GREEN held)

Steven BRADLEY (UKIP)

No details provided

Kim CLIPSHAM (Labour)

'I am standing in Wensum ward to give people a better life. I served our country as a nursing sister in the Royal Air Force for eight years.

'With your support, I'll serve our community in Wensum as your local county councillor. I live and work in Wensum.

'I am a specialist research nurse at the Julian Hospital on Bowthorpe Road. Caring for people and putting something back into society motivates me.

'I am worried that the services we all value, rely on and pay into (eg schools, police, NHS, libraries), are being run down and destroyed by the Tories. This is not right or fair and we need to stand up and say so.

'With your support, I shall be a strong community champion, I will care for everyone in our community and I will stand up for Wensum ward all year round.'

Richard EDWARDS (Green)

'I was born on May 2 1967 in Wensum ward. I am an anti-cuts and anti-bedroom-tax campaigner and was county councillor for Mile Cross from 2009-2013.

'I am a working-class council estate socialist, Norwich born and bred, and will always stand up for the NHS, the poor, the unemployed, workers' rights, state pensions, council housing, state education and disability rights. I have been involved in many community organisations, including the Mile Cross Festival and Friends of Train Wood.

'I will never vote for cuts to services. It's time to tell the Tory government and Norfolk's Tory councillors that enough is enough.

'If elected, I will stand up for the residents of Wensum ward and Norwich, and challenge Labour councillors to do the same. We have to do what's right, not what is easy. A vote for me is a vote against Tory cuts.'

David KING (Conservative)

'I was first elected in May of 2015 to Hellesdon Parish Council, on which I now serve on the majority of the council's committee, chairing one and being vice chair of two others.

'Local issues are very important to me especially those that require long term planning, developments in both housing and commercial use, should not just be for the developers to just line their pockets! Future developments should benefit the current resident and future residents that move to the area.

'It is due to this I started reading an Open University Law degree, which I am working towards now, this I will put to use in the public law aspects as a councillor. I am using this degree not so much for a career in law but to be able help to help the residents on the area that I represent in a more rounded, directed way.'

Jack SPOOR (Lib Dem)

'I am running for the county council because I believe it is vital for Wensum residents to have a Liberal Democrat councillor.

'The Lib Dems have always had a focus on local issues, building communities from the bottom up rather than just focusing on what happens in Westminster.

'I am a keen cyclist and I want to make the roads safer for cyclists pedestrians and motorists alike.'

SOUTH NORFOLK

Clavering (CONS held)

Christopher BROWN (Lib Dem)

'Living within the Clavering division I want to be elected to Norfolk County Council to represent my local area and local residents to help them to get the services they need and expect.

'As a local school governor, making sure the county council provides the best possible service to children and delivers high quality education to help every child to succeed is very important.

'If elected, my other priorities will be to support transport improvements, including public transport, cycling and improving road safety, better broadband in rural areas, support for local businesses and keeping our great library services. 'Having previously been a local councillor elsewhere I understand how local authorities operate so can immediately get to work. I have always been a consensus politician and believe most people rightly expect local politicians to work together. I would always seek to work with others for the good of Norfolk residents.'

Nicola FOWLER (Labour)

'I am a qualified accountant who has stood in many elections in previous years for the district and county elections in my local area in the Henstead Division.

'My concern for the Clavering area mainly covers issues which are a problem in rural communities covering a large geographical area.

'That includes: access to good public transport services, especially affecting the younger people's access to paid employment and the elderly's ability to retain their independence; access to affordable housing so people can carry on living in the areas they have grown up in and retaining local amenities as larger distances need to be travelled to visit everyday places such as a primary school, Post Office, or a food store.'

* Margaret STONE (Conservatives)

'I am married with two children and four grandchildren. I trained as a nurse at Addenbrooke's. My entire professional life was spent in the health service supporting the sick, vulnerable or oppressed. For 25 years, I worked in research looking at the causes and treatment of 200 types of arthritis.

'I stand up for people and communities, ensuring the best services regardless of difficult budgets. As vice chairman of adult social services, I have one of the hardest jobs, prioritising care for those in real need.

'I support projects which enable people to become independent and initiatives which help the elderly remain in their own home.

'I am very aware of the limits of transport in rural communities and increasing, fast traffic. I work closely with Highways to reduce speed where necessary but also to keep the traffic moving. Competing expectations of traffic and people are challenging, but achievable given my strong supporting voice.'

Costessey (LIB DEM held)

* Tim EAST (Lib Dem)

'I am proud to live in Costessey where I have served for 34 years as a locally elected Lib Dem Councillor. I have:

Saved Costessey Library from the threat of closure; stopped the closure of the Beechcroft Surgery; successfully fought a long campaign against building a waste incinerator in Costessey.

'There is still plenty to do including: Promoting a 2nd exit for Queen's Hills; I'm implacably opposed to the Farmland Road housing application and I'm negotiating with developers for a new pavilion and sports pitches on the Hampdens, Lodge Farm, having already helped deliver the Costessey Centre and West Costessey Hall, Queen's Hills.

'As chairperson of the Western Link Project Working Group, I'm actively working to connect the ¾ NDR to the A47 trunk road.

'I am an experienced councillor who lives in Costessey who will ensure that Costessey residents continue to benefit from my passion for all things Costessey.'

Jonathan GARRARD (Labour)

No details provided

Catherine ROWETT (Green)

No details provided

Andrew WILTSHIRE (Conservative)

'I am 30 years old, married with three (soon to be four), children. I work in the city centre but previously worked for seven years worked in adult and children's social services where I ran an emergency care service, assessed and provided packages of care and developed a service to support teenagers at risk of going into foster or residential care.

'At County Hall, I will be a strong advocate for the change we so badly need - but particularly in reforming social care services.

'Whether it's a bit of help in the home, or a move to residential care, people deserve clear, accurate information from their first letter, call or email.

'I am a strong believer in good public services but those services can be provided more efficiently by working together and through smarter working: instead of just cutting services, finding new and collaborative ways for them to be run for the future.'

Diss and Roydon (CONS held)

Chris DAVISON (Labour)

'The population around Diss is booming and yet the roads, the schools and the doctor's surgeries are strained to breaking point.

'This is because no one has been speaking up for the south of the county for years. If elected I want to listen to my neighbours and make sure their voices are heard in County Hall.

'I want them to hear about the traffic chaos in Victoria Road, I want them to know that Diss High School is great but it needs to be properly funded to cope with the extra pupils.

'I want them to be aware that our town needs a proper bus service that people can use to get to work. If the people of DIss and Roydon elect me then our voices will be heard.'

Keith KIDDIE (Conservative)

'I spent my entire working life as an officer in the Royal Fusiliers. During my service I travelled extensively around the world and completed numerous tours in trouble-spots, including Northern Ireland, the first Gulf War, East Timor and Afghanistan. I worked in arms control travelling extensively in eastern Europe before the expansion of NATO.

'Since leaving the Army, I have been a South Norfolk District councillor for Diss and served as Mayor of Diss. I am married with three grown up children who all attended local schools.

'I ran the Diss Youth and Community Centre as part of my remit as a Diss Town Councillor. I oversaw refurbishments and improvements to the building. Diss Museum also benefitted by gaining new offices at the centre. Diss Youth & Community Centre is now a thriving and much-used local resource.

'During my year as Mayor of Diss, work was begun on the Cornhall and Heritage Triangle project.'

David MILTON (Green)

No details provided

Tracy SCOGGINS (Lib Dem)

'I believe the people of Diss and Roydon need someone who will properly represent their interests at County Hall.

'Since November the local Lib Dem team have been surveying in Diss and Roydon to understand local issues and I am leading a campaign to keep Diss Post Office open.

'We have identified a number of other significant issues in relation to traffic congestion and a lack of infrastructure to support the continued growth in housing. To date these have not been adequately addressed. I will fight for these vital improvements.

'As a first time candidate and someone who is new to politics I bring with me a fresh energy and approach along with a willingness to challenge the status quo. If elected, I will hold monthly surgeries in the division to keep in touch with residents and able to fight for the issues which matter most to local people.'

East Depwade (CONS held)

James EDDY (Labour)

'Living and working in Harleston brings me into contact with what I consider the greatest gift that Norfolk has to offer: the people. Kind, fiercely loyal and perhaps most of all, fair, there is a sense of community that runs through this part of South Norfolk that can't be matched elsewhere.

'That's why it makes me sad that so much damage is done through the excesses of government policies and through Conservative county councillors reluctant to do anything meaningful to help.

'No members of our community should be made to feel marginalised and I believe that East Depwade deserves less lazy thinking and more creative solutions to the problems we all face; so that our potholed country roads are properly repaired, better support is offered to unpaid carers and help is provided where it is needed and deserved.'

Susan KUZMIC (Lib Dem)

'I have lived in Harleston for over 20 years and have been involved in many local charities and other organisations. I have campaigned on many important local issues.

'My seven years on the local town council gave me a good insight into local concerns and proved my commitment to the community.

'I would like to see more road improvements with a particular emphasis on road safety and reducing accidents. I would like to champion the cause of the most vulnerable residents in our community. Free parking in Harleston is an important issue. 'It benefits all the residents in East Depwade. It is important for us to once again come together to fight to protect free parking and make our voice heard.

'I feel future growth of our communities can only be achieved with a sustainable infrastructure such as increased capacity in our schools and medical services.'

* Martin WILBY (Conservative)

'Local people need someone who will stand up for them on the county council. I have lived locally all my life and have a record of action in helping all members of the community regardless of their political views.

'Born in Harleston, I am married and have two sons and two grandchildren.

'I am an experienced councillor and has been involved with many campaigns to support local communities since being elected. I am presently chairman of the county's environment, transport and development committee.

'I put the needs of residents first by supporting first class care for the elderly, being tough on crime and anti-social behaviour. I am a school governor and keeps in touch and supports all of the excellent schools in East Depwade.

'My strengths are listening to people and taking a common sense approach to life with a capacity for commitment and hard work.'

Forehoe (CONS held)

* Colin FOULGER (Conservative)

'Forehoe's residents need someone who will stand up for them on the county council, regardless of their political views, and that is exactly what I have achieved since I was successfully elected to Norfolk County Council in May 2013.

'I have lived locally for over 25 years where I met and married my wife Carole, a locally born tax accountant. For several years we lived in Wymondham before moving to Bunwell 18 months ago.

'From 2007 I served two terms as a town councillor in Wymondham during which he was Mayor on two separate occasions. In 2011 I was elected to South Norfolk Council to which I was re-elected in 2015.

'I represent the county council on the board of directors at the Hethel Engineering Centre. Between Norwich and Cambridge, the centre sits very neatly at the heart of the 'high-tech' A11 corridor which is vital to driving growth in both the local and national economy.'

Robert MCCLENNING (Lib Dem)

'The County Council will play a major part of how Norfolk will prosper or fail. The Rainbow Coalition worked well and, until the Green party got upset and withdrew their support, was proving how willing partners can and do deliver good governance.

'I want to be part of a new team working with our residents to drive up standards all round. Whitehall's demands on local authorities have created huge problems for them and the current party in charge goes along with this as though there are no alternatives.

'Here in South Norfolk the Liberal Democrats offer the only serious alternative to the Conservatives.

'I'm hoping that my experience of many years of serving as a councillor will stand me in good stead and that with a fair wind and a little help from you I hope to do just that.'

Steven SEWELL (Labour)

'I am 59 years old and recently retired after 28 years with British Telecom and five years with the Broads Authority. I have lived in the village of Mulbarton for 30 years where I currently serve as a Parish Councillor.

'Of principle concern to me is the large and rapid housing development currently being undertaken in Mulbarton, surrounding villages and the Cromwell area of Wymondham.

'I recognise that there is an urgent need to provide new affordable housing for our growing population but I think it is important that this is undertaken in a sympathetic and sustainable manner.

'It is important to ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to service any current and proposed new development. 'If elected I will strive to ensure that the provision of schools, doctors surgeries, social services and transport links are adequate to meet requirements.'

Henstead (CONS held)

Tom FOWLER (Labour)

'I have lived in Poringland in the Henstead division, which I am representing Labour in, for around 17 years. As I have grown up I have also watched Poringland grow.

'I'm now a student studying in Norwich, but I have grown concerned as many have with the scale of housing developments which has over-subscribed the village for housing.

'There have been instances where the housing has been forced by the local government on residents who had lobbied together to prevent it.

'This growth in housing throughout Poringland, Stoke Holy Cross, and other parts of Henstead has led to disruptive roadworks and road closures as utilities are updated, coupled with increasingly congested roads.

'I believe that the citizens of our ward deserve to be sufficiently represented and listened to with their concerns, to get improved amenities; and build housing somewhere else in Norfolk – somewhere that actually needs it.'

Matthew HAMMOND (Lib Dem)

'I am very concerned that the Tory County Council has cut support funding for Saffron Housing's Sheltered Accommodation from next year. The £190,000 cut will hit the call service and visiting wardens for elderly and vulnerable residents. If elected on May 4 I will work to restore this funding.

'I will press the council to reduce speed limits on minor roads in the area to improve the lives of local residents and I will work to improve vital local bus services.

'I support closer working between the NHS and the county's social services, and I will fight for an education system that gives equal opportunities to children from all backgrounds.

'The Liberal Democrats are the only serious alternative to the Conservatives here in South Norfolk. I will never take your vote for granted.

'I want to contribute to maintaining and improving County Council services. Please give me your support.'

Vic THOMSON (Conservative)

'I live in Yelverton with my wife and young son. We have lived there for the last 11 years after moving from London.

'I was born in Yorkshire and trained as a teacher after leaving school. My first jobs were in Cheshire and Liverpool before becoming a headmaster in Oxfordshire.

'Later, I moved into financial services. I started a company providing services to verify documents such as passports and driving licences.

'This enabled clients to check that their employees and clients were genuine and met the government guideline of 'know your client'. I retired from the company shortly before becoming a district councillor in 2015.

'After becoming a member of South Norfolk Council I was appointed to the Broads Authority and to the Whitlingham Charitable Trust.

'I am chairman of South Norfolk's development management (planning) committee. I am committed to high quality housing with all the appropriate infrastructure required by modern living standards.'

Hingham (CONS held)

Paul BLATHWAYT (Lib Dem)

'I hope to be elected to Norfolk County Council on May 4 because I want to represent the residents of this division and fight for the best possible services for them.

My key priorities will be: Ensuring that the proposed merger of health and social care works effectively to support all those in need and working to retain a fully integrated education system which meets the needs of local children.

'I have taken a close interest in the integration of the A47 improvements west of Easton with the proposed Food Hub. This scheme can only proceed with a transport plan that does not involve heavy traffic using local lanes.

'The Liberal Democrats are the only major party fighting to prevent a disastrous exit from Europe and wish to give the British people the chance to have a vote on the final deal that is negotiated. Please give me your support.'

* Margaret DEWSBURY (Conservative)

'Since joining Norfolk County Council in 2013 I have become chairman of the communities committee and the Arts Forum, vice-chairman of the Norwich Western Link Project, served on the A47 Alliance, the environment, development and transport committee and children's services and community learning working groups.

'I am an experienced councillor having served on South Norfolk Council for twenty-one years and been involved with a variety of local community and voluntary groups, including county organisations such as Norfolk Playing Fields Association and the Rural Community Council. She was chairman of South Norfolk Council in 2008.

'My husband Terry and I can often be seen running children's games at local fetes to raise funds for local organisations.

'I promote the latest grants and help available from the councils to support local people and organisations. My main aim is to act as advocate for local people and ensure that the county and district councils always act in their best interests.'

James LEMAN (Labour)

No details provided

Humbleyard (CONS held)

David BILLS (Conservative)

'I have represented Hethersett Ward for 10 years as a district councillor including eight years as a cabinet member and one year as chairman of council.

'I have supported worthy community projects and will continue to do so in Bawburgh, Cringleford, Hethersett and Little Melton including: village halls/venues sports clubs senior citizen travel and farmers markets.

'I am chairman of the Hethersett Dementia Support Group and vice chairman of Hethersett Athletic Football Club. I am a member of the Hethersett and Meltons Sports Association and of the Hethersett Village Screen. I am Secretary of the Woodhall Residents Association.

'I am very aware of local problems and how to help solve them. For example, I worked with local residents to oppose successfully the Hethersett Paddock planning application.

'I aim to continue working with the residents, listening to their views concerns and acting where possible or advising them on the right direction to take.'

Bethan GULLIVER (Labour)

'I have lived in Tacolneston, Norfolk for the last nine years, with my husband and teenage children.

'I have always worked in education, firstly in research and then in secondary and further education. I currently run the international A-level programme at INTO UEA.

'I first joined the Labour party at 16, and was secretary of my local branch for many years. I have served as school governor at a number of primary schools and was chair of governors at Tacolneston.

'My driving force politically is a desire for equality of opportunity for all. I believe we all deserve the same opportunities.

'Our success in life should not depend on gender, age, ability or disability, or whether we live in a rural or urban community.

'Cuts to our services all impact on our equality of opportunity and I am a labour party member to fight against these cuts.'

Jacky SUTTON (Lib Dem)

'We continue to see the withdrawal of much needed public services across our county - as we enter the seventh year of cuts in public sector budgets. I have spent my working life on the front line of welfare benefits delivery, represented my community in local government, and experienced the shortfalls in care provision for an elderly relative with dementia; so I understand how these changes impact on people's everyday lives.

'We must challenge the insidious dogma that preaches 'private good, public bad' or witness further deterioration in the provision of social care, children's services, educational opportunities and infrastructure improvements.

'We need fresh faces at County Hall, more representative of the diversity of our communities and ready to fight for our public services.

'Liberal Democrats will provide those fresh faces and mount that challenge. I would like to be part of that team. Please give me your support.'

Loddon (CONS held)

David BINGHAM (Lib Dem)

'I am fighting to be elected to the Loddon Division of Norfolk County Council on May 4 because I want to represent the residents and contribute to providing the best possible services for them.

'The same person and party have represented this area for years. Change is vital.

'As part of that change, when elected my key priorities will be: Ensuring no compromise over building of roundabouts on the A146 at the junctions of George Lane and Yarmouth Road; Working to ensure that children's services move beyond failure to meet the needs of all local children and young people and ensuring the proposed merger of health and social care works effectively to support all those in need.

'The Rainbow Alliance worked very well running the council after 2013. Most people like to see politicians working together not just arguing. I want to be part of such a successful team.'

David BISSONET (Labour)

'I have stood as a Labour and Cooperative County Council candidate for Loddon twice before this year and once for the district council seat of Chedgrave and Thurton.

'I am a semi-retired Chartered Architect, having worked in the city for 40 years and I have been a Labour member for over 40 years - through thick and thin!

'I was chairman of the Dragon Hall Trustees, am a co-opted member of Claxton Village Hall Charity Committee and independent chairman of the Claxton Pits Trust Charity and a committee member of the local Amnesty International group.

'I am interested in transport in Norfolk and would like to see bus time tables more suited to schools and employers/ees and wonder if 'smart ticketing' is the answer. I accept that all bus services need to be subsidised.'

* Barry STONE (Conservative)

'I live in Hempnall with my wife Margaret and have been an active community campaigner for nearly 25 years having served as both a district and county councillor.

'It is this experience that has equipped me to serve on Norfolk County Council. I am currently a member of the children's services committee where I have been able to put my 40 years teaching experience to good use.

'I have been instrumental in reforming how we deliver services for young people in the county as well as looking at the provision for tackling Mental Health issues in children from birth to 16 years.

'I have campaigned successfully to keep small rural schools open and mobile libraries running. I have played an active role in supporting community activities and cultural involvement, particularly among young people, and in many regeneration and economic development projects such as promoting rural heritage and tourism.'

Long Stratton (CONS held)

Elana KATZ (Labour)

'I recently retired after 40 years in educational publishing. I am standing as for Stratton in the county elections because I believe in community and worry about how Conservative austerity cuts are eroding community life.

'Closures of libraries, children's centres, playing fields and parks, centres for the aged or the disabled – these cuts deprive us of opportunities for a healthy and fulfilling life.

'This is deplorable in one of the world's richest countries. I will work hard to keep services in place and restore resources that have been lost.

'I have always been passionate about social equality especially access to housing, education and health, opportunities and conditions at work and rights for people to participate fully in society.

'In the 80s, I worked with Oxford City Council to establish a Lesbian and Gay Centre there.

'I'll work hard to improve local bus services and tackle the dangerous Hempnall crossing.'

Roger PERCIVAL (Lib Dem)

'Over many years I have done my best for the residents of the Long Stratton area. I practised as a solicitor in Long Stratton, and served as a local district councillor. That hard work will continue if I am elected as your county councillor. 'I am very concerned that Norfolk County Council has cut a significant grant to Long Stratton-based Saffron Housing. It means that support services for sheltered accommodation (including Long Stratton's Depwade Court) are at risk, affecting the call service and visiting wardens. I will fight to reverse this cut.

'I'm clear that we MUST get the Long Stratton bypass before the largescale development we've had to accept – and this must include the improvement of the Hempnall / A140 crossroads.

'When recently part of the Rainbow Alliance at the county council, the Liberal Democrats were behind the much-needed improvements in educational attainment. That must continue.'

Alison THOMAS (Conservative)

'I have lived locally with my family for over 22 years. I was elected to the county council in 2009. I worked as a nursing sister at Guy's Hospital, London. I became involved in local issues campaigning for the Long Stratton Bypass from 1997.

'The design of the bypass is finally progressing but there is still work to do to ensure it delivers much needed improvements for local residents without detrimental impacts to outlying villages.

'Having first become involved in local politics to push forward the bypass I am determined to see the right scheme delivered for all.

'I became deputy leader of the Conservative Group in 2015, and, since May 2016 have been deputy leader of the council, with responsibility for finance.

'My priority is to ensure that the council works on a sound financial footing whilst always making sure the needs of Norfolk residents come first.'

West Depwade (CONS held)

Pam REEKIE (Labour)

'I have lived in Norfolk for over 30 years, moving here with my husband and three children to run Norwich Arts Centre for nearly 20 years. In 2010 we moved to Dickleburgh.

'I believe in a fair society for all, I want the best education for all our children, not just a few.

'I want to support local business and increase job opportunities for rural people. I want transport to support workers and school children.

'I want good housing developments in sensible areas supported but improved services, such as drainage, schools and doctors surgeries.

'I want to safeguard our countryside for generations to come and to give ordinary people the support they need to live in rural areas.

'We need a change in local government, we need Labour candidates to challenge bad decisions made for our region.'

* Beverley SPRATT* (Conservative)

'I am Norfolk born and bred, and have lived in Tacolneston all my life. I am married with four grown-up children. An experienced local councillor, I have served the division of West Depwade since 2005.

'I became involved in local politics through my passion for improving the quality of lives for people in my local community. As a county councillor, my desire to deliver better schools and safer roads in my division remains undimmed.

'The schools in the West Depwade area have had very good Ofsted reports in recent months. Meanwhile, I am constantly trying to improve the highways network in my division, with the repair of potholes, resurfacing and the creation of new footpaths being top of my priorities.

'I am chairman of Tacolneston Parish Council, as well as a churchwarden of Tacolneston All Saints church.'

Ian SPRATT (Lib Dem)

'I was asked many times to stand as a candidate long before I decided to take the plunge. Not happy with complaining any longer, I made the decision to stand by the people who saw me as a good prospect as their councillor.

'The party issues are of course important and only the Liberal Democrats seem to talk the language of consensus and are not involved in a re-hash of politics that belong in the past.

'I want to help deliver progressive changes that the public approve of and want, and I feel I can best do that in the company of my fellow Liberal Democrat councillors.

'Past experience has shown that principled politicians are those who have served the country and their county best. I want to belong to a team that delivers on all fronts. I hope you will support me on May 4.'

Wymondham (CONS held)

Julian HALLS (Lib Dem)

'I want to represent the residents of Wymondham without central Government dictats in a climate of on-going austerity. The county council needs to maintain a democratic balance which is even more important as central government funding arrangements change in 2019.

'It is very bad for democracy if just one party dominates at all levels of governance.

'My key priorities will be to protect the vulnerable and those in need of social care now and in the future and to put a brake on the planned massive uncontrolled development. Without adequate infrastructure in place to cope for Wymondham with regard to school place provision and roads which currently ignore local views, to name just two.

'Working with others to provide a strong middle of the road policy for the residents of all Norfolk has to be a priority. I look forward to being part of such a team.'

* Joe MOONEY (Conservative)

'I have lived in Wymondham since 1983 with my wife, Catherine. We have four grown up children and two granddaughters. I spent most of his working life in the retail trade employed as a transport manager for one of the city's largest stores.

'I am absolutely delighted to have been selected once again to stand as a candidate for Norfolk County Council. It has been my privilege to represent the residents of Wymondham on Norfolk County Council for the last eight years.

'I have helped secure funds from the council for a variety of projects within the town such as funding for all of the town's school's current extension projects.

'I was also instrumental in securing funds for a number of footway and road repairs around Wymondham, eg the new cycleway along Harts Farm Road. I secured funding from the district council for the various voluntary groups in the town and supported South Norfolk Council's leisure centre refurbishment project.'

Doug UNDERWOOD (Labour)

'I am a well known resident of Wymondham and your only Labour Town Councillor. I fight for important causes like the football club lease, Playscape and fair democracy for Wymondham.

'I have been called 'The Listening Councillor'. I believe passionately in public services and will fight for fair funding for Wymondham and Norfolk.

'I will fight to protect social care which is important to our older residents in this town. I will fight to save fire and rescue services and have already started a campaign for fair funding for Norfolk.

'I have had over 40 years experience of working in the public sector so know what is important to us all. Wymondham needs extra services to deal with its rapid growth in house building.

'I will make sure we get extra schools which are properly funded. A vote for Doug Underwood is a vote for someone who listens.'

WEST NORFOLK

Clenchwarton & King's Lynn South (IND held)

Chris CROFTS (Conservative)

Chris was born and bought up in West Norfolk and has served local residents on various public bodies for over 30 years.

He is very experienced in planning and licensing matters and always tries to get extra facilities from developers for local people when planning applications are submitted.

Chris is currently the chairman of the borough council's licensing committee and is a member of the local plan group that is in the process of deciding the most suitable sites for future development within the borough.

He also a board member of Kings Lynn internal drainage board so understands the importance of maintaining an efficient drainage system in areas that are vulnerable to local flooding.

Chris is a classic car enthusiast and instigated the Kings Lynn Classic Car Day that is now held annually.

He serves on three local charities and is president of his local Royal British Legion Club.

Deborah HOLMAN (Labour)

'I believe in social justice, that everyone is entitled to a fair deal.

'The Tories' policies and cuts forced upon Norfolk county Council has meant those most vulnerable – children, young people, people with disabilities, and older people - have suffered most from underfunded, understaffed and closed services.

'The irony is that what the county council saves in frontline care is overshadowed by ballooning costs elsewhere: for hospitals, GP surgeries, policing - and you.

'I want to put my life experience working in the charitable, higher education, health and private sectors to good use, representing residents and supporting the county council to get it right.

'If elected I won't be a lone voice: I will be joining other Labour councillors and we will work together to make a positive difference for all our communities. I will work hard for you, for West Norfolk, and for a caring Norfolk.'

* Alexandra KEMP (Independent)

'I kept my promise to the electorate to get the incinerator stopped, even when putting people first meant becoming independent.

'Now I am asking for a mandate to finally ensure county protects Lynn and takes the Willows site out of the Waste Masterplan and the real danger of future nuisance from unsuitable waste treatment applications.

'I want commitment for a turnaround to Lynn's growing congestion that holds back commerce and tourism – with a properly incentivised Park-and-Ride on the Willows site, with integrated frequent public transport, direct to town, through Hardings Way (buses only), and to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital from the A10.

'I will also fight for: The Surgery South Lynn was promised; Clenchwarton Surgery re-opened; neighbourhood pharmacies and school crossing patrols protected; a care village in West Lynn; a West Winch and Setchey bypass before new development; no building on Gravel Hill; improved services for older people and care leavers and cutting-edge innovation in the Enterprise Zone to make Lynn a world-class leader.'

Trevor ROBERTS (UKIP)

No details provided

Dersingham (NON-ALIGNED held)

Stuart DARK (Conservative)

Stuart is a retired senior policeman. He lives in Snettisham and is a parish councillor and school governor. In 2016, he led the WASP campaign which stopped the council giving 3,400 acres over to mining.

He is standing as he feels dismayed that the council's controlling 'rainbow coalition' of parties only gave Dersingham three years of poor 'planning', the closure of fire stations, recycling centres, libraries and school patrols and a pervasive lack of interest.

He offers a clear alternative, pledging to; 1) protect Dersingham's villages, communities and surroundings 2) invest in 'key services' and jobs 3) Make the county council work for Dersingham.

Harry LANE (Lib Dem)

Harry lives in Dersingham and is involved in his local community. Personal priority areas include health and social care issues, including mental health and is committed to campaigning for excellence in education and effective environmental sustainability.

He also wants to see more affordable housing in future developments and investment in local libraries and other amenities

Ed ROBB (Labour)

No details provided

Docking (CONS held)

* Michael CHENERY OF HORSBRUGH (Conservative)

Michael is committed to serving the people of the Docking division. He will fight hard to protect front-line services, including Heacham fire station, Docking Recycling Centre, and Heacham school crossing patrols.

A focus on making sure pot holes are repaired quickly will be allied to a determination to see that speed restrictions are enforced.

Michael is passionate about preserving Norfolk's rural communities and rich history. As rail champion at the county council, he fights for good quality rail services across the region.

Adrianne LAKE (Labour)

'I am standing as your Labour candidate in the Docking division. Each village has its own priorities. However we all need Norfolk County Council to provide: coastal protection, regular transport, affordable housing, access to medical services and care, excellent education, better roads, effective policing, a clean environment.

'I worked as head of department in a London College before moving to Syderstone in 2000. Since then I have taught in several Norfolk schools and I now volunteer as a homechecker for animals.

'If elected I will be a strong voice for your concerns and will ensure that your issues are prioritised.'

David MILLS (Lib Dem)

Local businessman David Mills is active in the local community, especially on behalf of young people and their education, which he believes should and must take priority over everything else which requires (increased) financial support - not the opposite. It is our young people who are the future and wealth of our country.

'He is proud to be a European and to be regarded as a world citizen who desires for the sake of all young people and their futures peace and a more just and fairer world.

'Local matters are also very important to him such as creating a better public transport system. Eg why not a park and ride facility east and west of Kings Lynn?'

Downham Market (CONS held)

Jackie CROCKSTON (Labour)

'I have spent several weeks going round Downham Market talking to residents about their concerns and what they would like to happen in the town. Whoever I speak to the major concerns are very similar.

'New houses will be built in Downham Market, the infrastructure and services in and around the town need to be improved before the houses are built.

'Children are being let down by poor education facilities after age 11, both in terms of the education they receive and the lack of school places.

'Too many children leave Junior school and have to travel out of town to school. Insufficient support and facilities for disabled people of all ages.

'Older residents and their carers need more help to enable them stay in their homes.

'If you vote for me, I will continue to listen and I will prioritise the things you have told me are important to you.'

Josie RATCLIFFE (Lib Dem)

Josie Ratcliffe lives in Downham Market and works in the transport and logistics sector at a large local industrial site. Josie sees economic development as being a significant area of concern for the county council and will fight for West Norfolk to get a fair deal from Norwich-based decision-makers.

Josie wants to see more youth provision and the most vulnerable members of the community protected from any future cuts. Josie pledges to work in partnership with the voluntary sector and with other local authorities. Josie would hold regular surgeries and keep residents informed about issues affecting their communities.

* Tony WHITE (Conservative)

Tony White, born locally in West Norfolk; his business interests are run from his nearby office.

Tony is currently county councillor for Downham Market Division, a post he holds close to his heart, and would be delighted to continue.

Tony is continually campaigning for those persons who have special needs, both adults and children; he is passionate that day centres and workshops continue for the benefit of the whole family unit.

He is determined that during his term many local issues will be addressed.

Tony is campaigning and caring for this community so that Downham Market may continue to thrive.

Dave WILLIAMS (UKIP)

'Living in Norfolk for the past 26 years. I am married with two sons. Presently vice chairman of my parish council. My passion is to empower people in their local communities.

'UKIP brought a more democratic system back to the county council and also successfully opposed the Kings Lynn Incinerator.

Care for the elderly and vulnerable along with other essential public services are being squeezed.

'Recent provisional figures show a massive 10pc increase in government spending on' overseas aid' £13.3bn in 2016.

'The Conservatives say they would protect local services but their actions in County Hall say otherwise with cuts in the fire and rescue services and others cuts planned.

'UKIP councillors without the restraints of a whip are free to represent the concerns of their constituents. I would fight to stop further cuts particularly those affecting the most vulnerable.'

Feltwell (CONS held)

John CROFTS (Liberal Democrat)

John Crofts is the headmaster in Hunstanton, where he is also a churchwarden and a rotarian with a desire to contribute to the locality.

John believes that being a responsive listener to the needs of the community is crucial and in particular at a time when cuts are being made to so many services, wishes to be an advocate for the future education of our children and social care for the elderly.

John wants to work with community groups, enabling them to solve situations locally in a way that brings people together. He hopes that we will continue to have a major role in European matters to ensure environmental sustainability and economic development for Norfolk in a tolerant and democratic society.

* Martin STOREY (Conservative)

Martin's priorities have always been to represent the people of the Feltwell Division and to be there for them. Martin feels it is essential to keep frontline services and amenities available to everyone in the community.

He also feels it is important to help improve adult social care, children's services and to repair the road surfaces (potholes).

Martin is passionate about representing the people, particularly as he sees himself as a people person and considers it important to listen to and learn from them at all times.

You can contact Martin on 07850866854.

Peter WORTLEY (Labour)

'I've been an arable farmer all my life, whilst caring for my father until he died at 102.

'I used to vote Tory, but cannot now with a clear conscience when I see what's happening at a national level. I don't agree with privatisation of the NHS; the poor and disabled affected by cruel austerity measures; the next generation being denied affordable housing; unfair women's pension rise and escalating university fees.

'The Labour Party will fight for social justice, equal opportunities and human rights. Many issues are important to me at a local level: schooling, housing, adult social care, adult education, supporting carers in our county, transport, fracking and our environment.

'I will listen to you, act on your concerns; and be loyal to my constituents if elected. I value your support and hope you consider giving me your vote on May 4.'

Fincham (CONS held)

Ashley COLLINS (UKIP)

'Living in Wiggenhall St Germans since 2006, I have served as a UKIP borough councilllor for the Watlington ward.

'In County Hall UKIP enabled a return to the more democratic committee system and also successfully fought to abandon the Kings Lynn incinerator project.

'Having said they would protect local services, in February, 41 Conservative county councillors voted down a UKIP proposal to stop a planned £490K cut to the fire service next year, which is already short staffed in many stations.

'Government spending on 'overseas aid' continues to rise. Provisional figures show a massive 10pc increase (£13.3bn in 2016) at a time when essential local services are being squeezed.

'UKIP councillors are not whipped unlike the other parties and can freely speak for their constituents concerns. I would fight any further cuts in local services particularly those affecting the vulnerable.'

Sam GIPSON (Labour)

'I'm a working woman with three grown up children who predominantly work in the public sector. I have lived in Norfolk for over 20 years and have a working background in the NHS, care of the elderly and in further education. I am an active trade unionist.

'I worry about my children's chances to make their own way in the world with struggling education systems and underfunded health and social care. 'I am passionate that funding for early years and education are the forefront with all children supported to achieve their full potential.

'I am committed to provision for those in need of care and support in later years. I want a more equal Norfolk where funding is not cut to vital services, where rural transport is reliable, value for money and serves rural communities. These are the things that I will fight for as a county councillor.'

* Brian LONG (Conservative)

Brian has been a county councillor for eight years and borough councillor for 14. During this time Brian has been environment portfolio holder, and leader of the borough council and has been chairman of the Norfolk County planning committee.

Brian has also been involved with children's and adult Social services, helping to protect the most vulnerable in our society.

Brian is a safe pair of hands going forward with the experience to deliver on his promises, he works hard for his electorate and will continue to do so if you trust him with your vote.

Carol RENARD (Lib Dem)

'I am a wife, mother and grandmother and a keen environmentalist. I have lived in the Fincham division since 2003 and have worked in education locally for 19 years. I am motivated by unfairness, whether that be at a local, national or global level and I really want to do something about it.

'If elected, my focus would be to listen to what you believe needs to be done to improve and protect our local area and vital services. My goal is to make a difference however big or small and provide support to all that need it.'

Freebridge Lynn (CONS held)

Michael DE WHALLEY (Green)

Michael de Whalley was born, grew up, studied and works in West Norfolk.

He is campaigning for your vote, to ensure Freebridge Lynn Division is represented by a conscientious and passionate councillor.

Michael has a long history of active local campaigning, such as kick starting the successful opposition campaign to the waste incinerator.

Michael has also lobbied to defend local community schools. He has sought to prevent inappropriate quarrying and housing developments. Michael supports the efforts to retain the services provided by the Arts Centre.

As a strong advocate of localism, Michael is now seeking your vote to ensure your voice counts and you are effectively represented.

Simon EYRE (Conservative)

Simon's aim is to protect schools, services and social care and would like to bring more recognition and respect for those that work hard to keep us safe and cared for.

Road safety, maintenance and layouts are important for an ever growing community to ensure businesses can grow and wishes to work closely with his continuance to ensure a pragmatic approach to getting the best results for the best value for money.

Wilf LAMBERT (Labour)

'Having lived most of my life around the Woottons I care passionately about the area and people who live and work in this beautiful part of West Norfolk. 'As a council tax payer I want to ensure householder services are good value and West Norfolk gets its fair share of the money being spent.

'I have seen many employers disappear from our industrial estates along with the quality jobs they provided. I would press the county to promote new technology industrial growth in King's Lynn by improving transportation links to Norwich and Cambridge where those industries are expanding. New employers could be persuaded to come to King's Lynn.

'Having worked in training at CITB for almost thirty years I am keen to ensure that the council does all it can to promote apprenticeship training for our young people ensuring we have the skills available for these new technology industries.'

Christine PERKINS (UKIP)

No details provided

Simon WELLS (Lib Dem)

'Born and raised in King's Lynn, I have lived in South Wootton for 19 years and am standing to ensure that our needs are represented.

'I am concerned about the strain on our local services and as the two new housing developments get underway these will only get worse.

'I am particularly frustrated at the difficulties we face in accessing mental health care, and with an ageing population, I am concerned about loneliness and the difficulties faced in accessing adequate and supportive social care. Help me to ensure that the local area is a safe and happy place to live.'

Gayton and Nar Valley (UKIP held)

John CORDEN (UKIP)

No details provided

Graham MIDDLETON (Conservative)

'I would really relish the opportunity to stand as councillor for Gayton and Nar Valley. I feel that as a young voice I give you diversity at County Hall and offer you something different as your representative.

'I thrive on new challenges and believe we can work together to better Norfolk. If you wish to get in contact with me please do by email grmiddleton25@gmail.com or by phone 07946 309655.'

Natasha MORGAN (Labour)

'I am a mother and housewife who lives in our beautiful county of Norfolk. I am also standing as the Labour candidate for Gayton and Nar Valley.

'As a member of the public I have already had battles with local schools, social services and Norfolk County Council itself in getting the voices heard of honest hard working members of our community.

'Yes, I am a Labour candidate and the reason for this is because of their national policies. However, on May 4 I am standing as a local candidate for a local position to fight for the rights, the views and the wishes of the local people. I am one of them.

'You will be the people who will give me the ideas and dreams to fight for. If you give me the opportunity I won't let you down.'

Andrew NIXON (Lib Dem)

'West Norfolk has been my home for over 15 years. I trained in Scotland as an electrical technician before moving to work with looked after children.

'After engaging in countless discussions about Brexit, the widening gulf between the very rich and the rest of us and the clear crisis of funding and fragmentation of our schools I was persuaded to do more than talk.

'Our council should be ambitious about tackling challenges, our vision should extend beyond the short term. I advocated for an open, tolerant community which values education and equality while working for an environmentally sound, thriving economy.'

Gaywood North and Central (UKIP held)

John COLLOP (Labour)

'Having lived in the division since 1987 I have a thorough knowledge of what we need from the county council. I have been a borough councillor for 14 years and had a four year term as a county councillor all in the Gaywood area.

'I'm self employed registered with the Trusted Trader Scheme as a gardener for people with disabilities .

'Of the five candidates standing I am the only one who lives in the division. I'm standing in this election because we need a strong voice on Norfolk County Council to fight hard to get the resources and services we need.

'These are my priorities: More support for people with disabilities and mental health issues; improving local bus services ; increasing educational performance and opportunities; a better deal for the lower paid; more apprenticeships for the young and working with partners to make Norfolk a better and safer place.'

* Jim PERKINS (UKIP)

'I have represented the Gaywood North & Central division for the past four years. The UKIP promise which I took to County Hall was to halt the incinerator contract, to bring to a close the cabinet system of governance which concentrated all power in the hands of eight out of eighty for councillors, and thirdly to represent the interests of our individual divisions.

'We were told by everyone that with only fourteen representatives we stood no chance to change anything. However by working with all the non Tory groups we achieved all of our goals.

'It wasn't always easy working with such diverse groups especially as UKIP does not have a whip, we think and act as our conscience tells us. However by using common sense and by being pragmatic we achieved all of our goals.

'If you want change and a system that is based on honest thought and open debate without the system of coercion with people forced to toe a political line then vote to be represented by a UKIP candidate.'

Patrick ROCHFORD (Independent)

'I am running in this election as an Independent to speak up for the people of West Norfolk on issues like education, road improvements, lower taxes, attracting business, and safer communities.

'We need a stronger, independent voice at County Hall, not one bound by their parties' whip, being told how to vote nor can we afford to go back to chaos of the Rainbow Alliance.

'I can deliver for the residents of Gaywood North and Central not just because I am the borough councillor for a lot of you too but by electing me as the county councillor too, it means responsibility and more importantly accountability rests in one person.

'Look at my website patrickrochford.com for 'Patrick's Pledges' or my contact information.'

Ian SWINTON (Lib Dem)

'I am Ian Swinton and the Liberal Democrat Candidate for Gaywood North & Central. I'm 55, married with three grown up children and an active member of St Faith's Church, Gaywood.

'Having lived in King's Lynn for the last 14 years I have a good working knowledge of the area and am sympathetic to residents' concerns. I am passionate about the local environment; finding alternative energy sources and being less reliant on fuel from abroad.

'I'd like to see any new housing development fitted with solar panels as standard, which would not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also reduce householders' energy bills.'

Sheila YOUNG (Conservative)

Sheila lives in West Norfolk and is a serving borough councillor. She said that in the west there are so many areas of natural beauty and interest, great communities, and tremendous Heritage, with King's Lynn at the centre.

It is important to her that all these things should be protected, and said it would be a privilege to be able to highlight the concerns and needs of West Norfolk at County level.

She said it is her belief that good education should be available to all, and that our youth of today be supported and valued in order to become good citizens and leaders of the future.

She has experience as a high school governor, in particular special educational and disabilities needs.

Gaywood South (LAB held)

Rob COLWELL (Lib Dem)

'I have lived near Springwood High School for over 30 years. I was the West Norfolk 'StrongerIN' representative.

'I am a solicitor working in West Norfolk for over 10 years helping thousands of people since the days of Legal Aid and now I want to help the community.

'I have energy, enthusiasm and a passion for helping people through all walks of life. I have been involved with local community charities for the elderly, disabled and children. I am trying to protect the threatened Spring Wood following the application before the council, and leading an application to save access.'

Thomas SMITH (Conservative)

'I'm a local boy, born and raised in this division, standing so I can help my friends and neighbours.

'We need Norfolk County Council to work for us, that means we need change. I will be different, speaking up for us and fighting for our area to get us what we need.

'I will work to protect our services and get us the investments we need to help us prosper. I'll organise help for those areas with parking problems, and get the traffic moving so we can get around whatever time of day it is.

'I will be there to fight our corner, to make sure County Hall always gives us a good deal.

'We need a strong, proud, local voice to get us what we deserve, from better A roads to a decent chance for our young people. Whatever you need, I'm here for you.'

Michael STONE (UKIP)

No details provided

* Margaret WILKINSON (Labour)

'I'm councillor for Gaywood South where I've lived for 50 years. I am an experienced councillor having spent four years on Norfolk County Council and 32 years on West Norfolk Borough Council.

'My priority is to keep our community safe and local facilities like our library and fire stations open.

'Over the last four years, Labour ensured no libraries closed, no museums closed and no fire stations closed. If re-elected I will continue to work to keep these services open.

'I am prepared to fight for you and for Gaywood South. We live in a great place. I want to protect and improve it. I fought consistently to get the Tory approved, and much hated, King's Lynn incinerator scrapped.

'I am ready to listen and act for Gaywood South residents. So please vote for me on May 4. I promise that you and our community is my number one priority.'

King's Lynn North and Central (LAB held)

* David COLLIS (Labour)

'I've lived locally since 1976, I moved here to serve at RAF Martham then in 1982 I took up a career with the Royal British Legion.

'I'm a long serving borough and county councillor with over 22 years' experience. During this time I have assisted residents who need help and the area as a whole with issues like traffic planning, parking and the development of a new road to serve much needed new homes.

'Adult's and children's services have been heavily cut by the Tory government, I will work hard to ensure both services see improvement, despite the cuts.

'My involvement with the special school in North Lynn will help to reduce costs and improve family's lives. My support for the new primary school in North Lynn will ensure its completion enhancing services for the children and the wider community. 'Vote David Collis - a strong voice for King's Lynn.'

Richard COWARD (Lib Dem)

'To make sure that our town and its residents prosper in the years ahead Norfolk County Council must use its limited financial resources to tackle issues such as care services, education, transport management and the environment as cost-effectively as possible, protecting and enhancing front line services.

'It is equally important to ensure that the openness and tolerance which have always played such a crucial role in our civic history are maintained. Only in this way will the local economy thrive and vulnerable people be protected. King's Lynn is proud of its past. It must also be proud of its future.'

Matty HANNAY (UKIP)

No details provided

Toby WING-PENTELOW (Conservative)

Toby has lived in West Norfolk for the last 17 years and presently lives in Central Lynn which is part of the division he is campaigning for.

He cares deeply for the town and its history. The summer calendar of events is something he feels the town should be really proud of as it attracts tourism and income for local businesses.

He said: 'King's Lynn is a growing town undergoing a period of regeneration. I intend to work hard to promote this new growth and prosperity.'

Marshland North (UKIP held)

Erika COWARD (Lib Dem)

'Local residents expect Norfolk County Council to create and maintain an environment where businesses can thrive, employment prospects remain good and public services function efficiently.

'Health services, care services and educational provision within the county play a central role in enhancing our quality of life, with the most vulnerable amongst us often particularly dependent on these services.

'Rational handling of difficult environmental issues such as waste management is also vital to the work of the county council.

'If elected I would do my best to help manage the difficult conflicting demands of these various tasks with sensitivity and good sense.'

Izik KRUH-ATAR (Labour)

No details provided

Sandra SQUIRE (Conservative)

No details provided

Marshland South (CONS held)

* Harry HUMPHREY (Conservative)

'I live at Fendyke Stables in Emneth. I am a financial adviser and my hobbies are my smallholding, my horses, reading and DIY.

'I have been the county councillor for Marshland South since 1993 and have had lead responsibilities on the county council including community safety, fire service, trading standards, emergency planning, finance and performance.

'I have worked with our MPs and councillors and council officers to improve and maintain Norfolk and local services and have addressed community and individual concerns about schools, social services, speeding, drainage, buses, roads, footways and safety issues which are brought to my attention.

'My aims are to strengthen and improve confidence in our rural communities, to maintain and improve local services, improvement in our schools, improving road maintenance and safety, especially at junctions.

'If re-elected I will continue to strive to see that services and resources are fairly allocated to our rural communities.'

Robin MANN (Labour)

No details provided

Colin ROSE (UKIP)

'Involved in various local issues since I came to Norfolk, 33 years ago, I felt we must all be engaged in politics or have ourselves to blame.

'UKIP, having no party whip, I can concentrate on serving my community. We face challenging times to retain services amid continual cuts - I hope to ensure the aged and vulnerable are protected.

'Others have dwelt upon: the cuts in services, so I shall concentrate on the feedback I've had from many supportive locals: Due to development of family homes in the area, speeding, poor roads, and lack of footpaths are a major priority, and in certain areas it would now be prudent to review speed limits and find a permanent system to effect control.

'Once out of the EU and reducing 'foreign aid' we'll have funds to provide for such and the NHS.'

Steven WHITE (Lib Dem)

'I am standing for election because I want to make sure that all our public services in Norfolk get the right support and investment, and that taxpayers' money is being spent wisely. As someone that has spent his adult life working in education.

'I am particularly passionate about all children and young people having access to high quality local schools and the opportunity to study at university or pursue vocational training.

'I believe in working together, and if elected I would look to work with people from other parties to do what is best for Norfolk.'

North Coast (IND held)

Christine HUDSON (Labour)

'I know we have been overwhelmed with political issues in the past months but this local election is really important to the people who live in Norfolk, to make our voices heard on local issues of concern.

'Norfolk has been highly criticised for its educational standards, lack of adult social services and what has been described as a total breakdown in children's services.

'Add to this the lack of maintenance on the roads and care of the environment and you can see there is a lot of work to be done.

'If elected I will endeavour to make sure that council money is spent on work to improve the lives of local people. We must sort out our priorities and get back on track making Norfolk a better place to live.'

Andrew JAMIESON (Conservative)

'I mean to bring new jobs and wider opportunities for people in West Norfolk. My local experience has shown that it is possible to create rewarding local employment by supporting small businesses.

'However, better transport, at times suitable to get people to and from local employment, is an immediate priority.

'Local education in Hunstanton must provide a full range of opportunities for young people, including vocational and technical training.

'Finally, Hunstanton needs the support of local agencies to continue to do the great work it has done over the decades to make the beach such a unique place for everyone.'

Debbie LE MAY (UKIP)

No details provided

Simon WILSON (Lib Dem)

Simon Wilson is an Anglican Priest, school governor and active in the local community.

He pledges to be a listening councillor, standing up for the needs of all residents, but especially the most vulnerable. He wants to bring people together, enabling them to solve situations locally in a way that brings communities together. He is a proud European, concerned about environmental sustainability and economic development.

For him, health and social care policies and affordable housing are key priorities. He is particularly concerned about road safety and is passionate about education. He believes in an open, tolerant and united Norfolk.