NIGEL Pearce (Liberal Democrat) who has represented Bude on Cornwall Council for eight years and was re-elected last year, has stood down and triggered a by-election on August 23.

The following four candidates are standing for election:

Alex Dart (Conservative) from Launceston has just graduated from the University of Kent with a degree in Politics. He says he is young, enthusiastic and committed to fighting for Bude.

A main priority would be to improve bathing water quality and keep Bude’s beaches clean. Recycled materials must be properly processed and not end up in a landfill.

He says that Cornwall Council must not ignore Bude so he will fight to bring about a tangible and positive change.

David Parsons (Liberal Democrat) is a retired teacher who runs a hardware store. He has lived in Bude all his life and has previously served six years on Cornwall Council.

If elected his priorities will be an integrated health system with hospital, doctors and social care working together, and affordable and decent housing as well as securing quality, well-paid employment and supporting schools with fair funding.

Ray Shemilt (Labour) is a qualified decorator and owner of a retail fashion business. Ray came to Bude in 2005, and as a member of the North Cornwall Labour Party has been active in campaigning on local issues.

His priorities are social housing, improving transport links and keeping the minor injuries unit at Stratton Hospital. Environmental issues are also very important to him.

Bob Willingham (Independent) is a local photographer and, having been a Bude-Stratton town councillor for six years, has recently become mayor.

As a county councillor his principle priorities would be to safeguard the future of Stratton Hospital and increase the services it offers, to ensure clean beaches and coastal waters, the provision of social housing and of work and leisure for local young people.