Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s former private secretary, Alastair Watson, is among the candidates contesting the Cotswold District Council by-election for The Rissingtons ward, held tomorrow, January 22nd.
This by-election was triggered by the resignation of Green Party councillor Andrew McLean, who stepped down last November after a diagnosis of a brain tumour. The seat is being contested by candidates from the Conservatives, Greens, Liberal Democrats, and Reform UK.
Currently, the council comprises 20 Liberal Democrats, nine Conservatives, one Green Party councillor, and one Independent.
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Below is a brief overview of each candidate:
Bob Eastoe (Green Party)
A retired finance and operations director with a background in engineering and accounting, Bob is committed to continuing the environmental work championed by Andrew McLean. He emphasizes the importance of local democracy during the transition to a new unitary authority, pledging to ensure residents’ voices remain heard amid increasing centralization.
Matt Fincham (Reform UK)
A British Army veteran and public relations consultant, Matt brings a strong connection to rural life and a passion for supporting farming and countryside industries. He aims to represent the unique needs of Cotswolds residents, balancing affordable housing demands and tourist access with preserving the region’s historic landscape.
Craig Thurling (Liberal Democrat)
Having lived in the Cotswolds for 15 years, Craig is active in the community as a Beaver Scouts leader. Professionally, he works in the energy sector focusing on reducing carbon emissions, and he narrowly missed election as county councillor last year. His priorities include defending local hospital services, addressing the cost of living, and improving roads and pavements.
Alastair Watson (Conservative)
An Oxford graduate and retired army major, Alastair served as Prince Andrew’s private secretary from 2003 to 2012 during his role as UK special representative for trade and investment. Watson has lived in the area for 35 years and has since dedicated himself to charity work after the passing of his wife in 2018. On the doorstep, he hears concerns about planning and the strain on infrastructure and services caused by new housing developments.
This by-election offers Cotswold voters the opportunity to choose their representative as the council navigates changes and local priorities.