RESIDENTS of Lawrence Ward in Crediton will go to the polls to elect a Town Councillor for Crediton Town Council (Lawrence Ward) on Thursday, March 27.

Voters will be asked to choose between two candidates, voting for only one.

Those standing for the seat are:

• Vix Frisby, address in Mid Devon, Independent candidate, proposed by Paul M Vincent and seconded by Giles Fawssett.

• Tim Stanford, address in Mid Devon, Liberal Democrats candidate, proposed by Anne M Snell and seconded by Saskia E Stanford.

We asked the candidates for their views:

VIX FRISBY

Vix said: “I have lived in Crediton for almost 20 years and raised both my daughters here, who attend QE school. I work as a Social Care Assessor for Devon County Council and prior to this worked locally across supported living homes. My professional role requires excellent communication skills, a compassionate and understanding nature and is essentially about improving lives.

“As an Independent Councillor, I would be able to utilise my skills and experience to benefit the local community. I strongly believe that the Town Council needs to be more widely representative of the town demographic and that councillors should really 'listen' to the views and concerns of local people.

“Council Tax payers and small businesses are the life blood of the town and Crediton's local council tax (precept) has gone up hugely over recent years and is now over £500,000. I think it is time to bring this down, in the light of the current cost of living crisis, as many local people find this hard to pay.

“The Community Conversation event last weekend, largely facilitated by 'Independent' councillors illustrated that 'Independent' council members are keen to connect with the local community, seek local opinions and provide platforms for local engagement. As a local resident myself, I care about the future of my town and am passionate about improving prospects for all and ensuring Crediton continues to be a great place to live.”

TIM STANFORD

Tim said: “I’m excited to stand as a candidate for the St Lawrence ward in the upcoming Crediton Town Council elections.

“I’ve been part of Crediton life for around 20 years, living in the St Lawrence ward for 18 of those years. Both of my sons attended local schools—Landscore Primary School, where I had the privilege of serving as a school governor alongside Headmaster Gary Read, and QE School, where they completed their GCSEs.

“My youngest son also sat his A-levels there last summer and is now in his first term at university in Plymouth.

“You’ll often find me walking around Crediton with my two black Labradors, Lexie and Lara—and this week is especially exciting as we’re expecting our first, very much planned, litter of puppies!

“My background is in sales and media, with over 20 years of experience managing customer accounts, coordinating promotions, and building brand awareness for clients. I currently work as a sales manager at Radio Exe Devon, where I continue to support local businesses and community initiatives.

“If elected, I’m eager to listen to the concerns of local residents and work collaboratively to support initiatives that enhance community life, protect our green spaces, and strengthen local businesses. I’m committed to representing St Lawrence with dedication and ensuring that Crediton continues to thrive.”

The polling station will operate at Crediton Congregational Church and voting will take place between 7am and 10pm.

Voters must take along photographic identification to vote.

The election follows the disqualification of Liberal Democrat Georgina Stone for not attending meetings.