Lesley Bushnell

Lib Dem Campaigner for Capel, Leigh and Newdigate

Lesley who has worked within the healthcare industry for most of her career, joined the Liberal Democrat party a few years ago, when she realised that sitting on the sofa and shouting at the politicians on the TV was not a valid way of helping people. Since then she has been actively involved in local politics, first playing a part in the successful campaign against the Conservative threat of a 15% Council Tax rise, which was halted following a Lib Dem petition.

Presenting the petition against the tips closure at County Hall with Parliamentary Candidate Paul Kennedy and County Councillor Hazel Watson.

She helped in another successful petition against the proposed closure of the recycling centres in Surrey and continues to campaign against fly-tipping. Road safety issues are important to Lesley, who is currently supporting residents in their bid to stop the potential of increased HGV traffic on dangerous bends on the A24 near Capel. She has always been interested in archaeology and, in 2013 completed her PhD at UCL, London and published her first archaeology book in 2016. She has also worked for 13 years as a volunteer in the British Museum.

Mike Ward

Campaigner, Focus editor and former Councillor

Many of you will already know Mike, a well-known local Campaigner, and Mole Valley Councillor for North Holmwood from 1984 to 2000. He has helped many residents to resolve many local issues and concerns. He championed speaking rights for the public at Council meetings and chaired the Committee that eventually introduced them, despite Conservative opposition. Mike is the Lib Dem Organiser for the group of 10 villages which make up the Dorking Rural division.

Mike and Lesley discussing a Focus issue at the Tanhouse Farm café.

He is the Editor of the Focus newsletter that goes out not only to the three villages of own ward, but also to seven other neighbouring villages, all with their own local news stories. He is also Chairman of Plane Wrong, campaigning to reduce aircraft noise which is has become a blight to so many. Hectic as the campaigning life is, Mike reserves time for the beautiful game actively supporting Manchester United.

Tim Brooks

Our Ambassador for Young People in the Ward

Tim, who at 25, is the youngest member of our team, would like to energise more young people to become engaged in politics, at both local and national levels because they are key to shaping the future of this area and our country. Despite his busy lifestyle – Tim works with disabled young adults – he is a tireless Lib Dem Campaigner, talking to residents about local concerns, helping to run our social media and website, and delivering Focus newsletters throughout the year. He fervently believes in providing opportunities for his generation with local jobs, affordable housing, facilities such as good public transport links and of course good broad band connectivity. Passionate about music, Tim plays and composes Alternative Pop music.

Tim and Lesley delivering Focus in Newdigate.