Sunday 8th June

Mark Stevenson, the Green candidate in the Henley by-election, was out on his bike touring the constituency this weekend. On Saturday he visited the Green Fair being held by Chinnor Friends of the Earth, where a bicycle sale was one of the main features.

“It was fantastic to see so many bikes being brought in during the morning and so few left at the end of the day” said Mark, “I know cycling is not for everyone, but it can be a great way to get around over short distances.”

Mark canvassed along several streets in the village, handing out a small A6 leaflet to those who were interested. Despite the deluge of paper being put out by candidates from the other main parties, Mr Stevenson came across people who did not know the election was on. “I want to try and do things a better way” he said, “if the amount of literature I have received is representative of the amount everyone else has had, then between them the Conservatives and Lib Dems have already used at least three tonnes of paper. Most of it seems to go directly into the recycling box, people simply aren’t interested.”

Mark Stevenson’s plan is to do as much door-to-door canvassing as he can and to hold public meetings so that people can meet him face to face. So far he has already had a meeting in Berinsfield, with meetings to come in Thame (Tuesday 10th), Watlington (Wednesday 11th) and Wheatley (Thursday12th). Henley and Garsington are planned, but not yet confirmed.

Mark said “I believe every voter should have an opportunity to meet the candidates, after all we are asking them to place their trust in us as their representative. Everyone knows that election leaflets are unreliable and often uninteresting. The best opportunity for voters to really make their minds up is a full-scale hustings with all the candidates there to be quizzed by the audience. I’d be delighted if this happened, but I’d be happy to visit any group of residents who would like to meet me."

Several motorists recognised Mr Stevenson and waved or hooted as they passed him on the road. Mr Stevenson said "I'm not anti-car, we couldn't do without our van for business. I just want to help make it less necessary for people in rural areas to use a car, let's keep our village shops, post offices, small businesses and health care. That's better for everyone. So please, keep waving or hooting to support me!"

ENDS

Contacts

Candidate: Mark Stevenson 07946891826 or 01865 341838

email mark@greenoxford.com

Secretary: Laura Bristow lmbristow@lineone.net

Agent: Stuart Major stuart@greenxoford.com