Philip Barrett (Ind): Philip has lived in South Craven all his life. He and his wife Janet live in Glusburn and they have two daughters who are both married. He has a long standing involvement and interest in the South Craven communities and it was for this reason he became a local councillor more than years ago.

For the last 12 years he has been South Craven’s Independent county councillor. Philip’s main election issues are to protect local services and public transport, safeguard and enhance the future sustainability of Cross Hills as South Craven’s local service centre, continue to oppose any future plans for parking charges in Cross Hills, support new local employment opportunities, be fully involved in the emerging Local Development Plan – which is now reaching the next public consultation stage - and to continue his work towards a much needed HGV weight limit on the A6068 through South Craven.

Roger Baxandall (UKIP): Roger has lived in Cross Hills for 16 years, having previously lived in Steeton where his father had a butchers shop. He served for five years on Steeton with Eastburn Parish Council.

He attended South Craven School before going into retailing world, working for Hillard's, Morrisons, Tesco, and the Shopping Bag, Cross Hills, (now the Spar). He started his own business, Craven Bacon Supplies in Cross Hills 30 years ago, providing work for himself and local people. He supplies butchers, bakers, corner shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants.

He says: “Sadly a lot of the small businesses I used to supply have now closed, mainly due to supermarket pressure. I believe that small and medium sized businesses are vital to our local economy and the prosperity of our local community.”

Bridie Reeves (Lab): As a recent graduate working in the frontline of the NHS, Bridie has first-hand experience of the damaging effects the coalition’s spending cuts have had on acute hospital care and social care in the community.

She says: “As an ex-England rugby player and Skipton Girls’ High School pupil, I have also been lucky enough to be supported by North Yorkshire County Council in my drive for success. I am committed to speaking out for the elderly and vulnerable in South Craven. I want to fight the cuts the health service in our area faces and I know we desperately need to invest in transport infrastructure. I want to think about our community in North Yorkshire and help people, especially our youth, gain essential work experience for the future.”