Lib Dems select former headteacher for Rye & Winchelsea by-election

Local Liberal Democrats have selected Derek Greenup in anticipation of the by-election for the Rye & Winchelsea Rother District seat vacated by Labour's Simon McGurk, which is likely to take place on 7 May.

Known as Mr Greenup to generations of local people, Derek was headteacher at William Parker School in Hastings before his retirement.

Derek, who has been a candidate for the party in the past, is seeking to win back the seat held by Howard Norton until 2023. He will run alongside Cllr Andrew Mier, who will be the Liberal Democrat County Council candidate for the towns.

Welcoming the selection Cllr Mier said, 'I am delighted that Derek will be my running mate. He is widely respected in our party and by hundreds of local families. We are very lucky to have him.'

Mr Greenup says, 'I am ready for the challenge. I will speak for families in the towns and our rural areas who are facing hard times. We need fairness and we need social cohesion. If elected, I will make this the priority for my Council work.'

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For further information contact Nick Perry on 07714 330642.