FROM: CLLR. ALEX PERKINS (Lib Dem Member Canterbury City Council)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Canterbury Liberal Democrats have chosen Local Cllr Alex Perkins to be their new leader. Alex, who represents Wincheap & Thanington Ward, and was first elected to The City Council in 1987 at the age of 23, is married and lives with his wife and children in Canterbury.

"I am delighted to be given the opportunity to lead my group" said Cllr Perkins. "We have many new and exciting challenges ahead of us in the next year as the government seem intent on turning local councils upside-down. The council faces almost total reorganisation and I plan to make sure that the basic ideal of good local services for everyone is our agenda! "

"Top of the list has got to be the hospital. When I was at school we lived in Cromwell Rd, just opposite the hospital gates. Our football pitch was the bank opposite The Accident & Emergency Centre. The kids were all born in the hospital and as a parent I know that having first class emergency medical care nearby and accessible is essential.

I will never give up the fight for Kent and Canterbury Hospital!"

There were words of support from several Liberal Democrat colleagues: "I will be giving Alex 100% support and I know he will really stick up for local people" said defeated leadership contender Peter Wales.

"We will be continuing to work together as a team and I am absolutely sure we have chosen the right man for the job" said retiring leader Cllr Martin Vye.

The new Liberal Democrat Leader works from home in publishing and web-design and with his wife Clare, who is manager of a local charity, shares the care of their disabled son Sam

RELEASE ENDS

Contact Alex Perkins 07818 403049

Canterbury Liberal Democrats