JACK Bennett is standing as the UK Independence Party candidate in the Worcestershire County Council elections for Croome.

He said: “I have spent my life in business and management of the horse racing industry. Some would say that I’m a “stick in the mud”, believing in old fashioned things like manners, my cultural heritage and the sovereignty of the British Parliament.

“I don’t want our country absorbed into a ‘United States of Europe’. We are one short step from that; but you can stop it happening.

“Seventy per cent of the population don’t want this to happen either. Please grab this chance to vote for the only mainstream party willing to say NO, and shake up the complacent career politicians in Westminster.”

BOB Bullock is standing as the Conservative Party candidate in the Worcestershire County Council elections for Croome.

He has lived all his life in Worcestershire but has travelled extensively around the world as part of his former employment with the Worcester Royal Porcelain Company.

He said that regular attendance at town and parish council meetings ensured he was able to deal with problems that arise promptly and efficiently.

He is pressing for Environment Agency schemes to alleviate flooding in Upton and Kempsey to be implemented quickly.

He cites his years of experience and willingness to meet residents face-to-face as a major part of helping them overcome their problems as quickly as possible.

A keen sportsman, he has organised funding for sports and young children’s activities.

TIM Perry is standing as the Liberal Democrat candidate in the Worcestershire County Council elections for Croome.

He said: “I was elected mayor of Upton upon Severn two years ago and learned during my time one of the most important aspect of the position was to listen to what local people have to say.

“People have many concerns including the over-development of housing, flood protection, more visible police presence, roads and highways.

“I believe that as a county councillor I represent you, the people of our area, and will do my best to ensure that your views and opinions reach the people who can make a difference to your lives.”

Kamala Todd is standing as the Green candidate in the Worcestershire County Council elections for Croome.

She said: "As an environmental science graduate I have long identified with the Green Party values.

"The maxim 'think globally, act locally', has never been more valid.

"As a county councillor I would serve with others to bring about a thriving local economy that will create more jobs locally, more affordable and sustainable housing for local people, better and more efficient local public transport systems, improved recycling and the greater availability of cleaner energy."