A young political candidate, now that is not something you see every day. But I am 19 years old and I am standing to be your next Hampshire County Councillor for Waterlooville and Stakes North.

I grew up in Whiteley over in Fareham, and have lived in Waterlooville for a good few years now. I have an emotional and raw memory of almost being made homeless when I was 9 years old. I believe the way to help people is not to marginalise, but to listen.

I believe the job of local government is to, put simply, help people – but in what way?

Firstly, we need more funding for services like Sure Start which helps families in lots of ways, whether it just being a space to get away or to learn new parenting skills.

I also believe that the county should be building more libraries, instead of constantly closing some and cutting the hours of the few that are left open. Libraries are an issue I feel strongly about because as a working-class boy I felt that there was nothing better than going to the library, whether to read books or access the Internet.

Constant Tory cuts over the last decade or so have really put pressure on local government services. I want to help create a society that is fair for all. Not just the well off.

My age is not a hindrance, but an advantage. Elect me on May the 6th and be rest assured, I will never stop fighting for you.