THE election on March 26 of a conservator for Malvern Link has been called following the resignation of the previous conservator in order to promote the cable car.

It is healthy that we now have an election for this important position and I am pleased to be one of the candidates.

Enjoyment of the hills lies in managing the competing expectations and behaviours of all of us who make use of them including young and old people, ramblers, joggers, birdwatchers, dog walkers, those who need more accessible footpaths, mountain bikers and paragliders.

All this requires work to ensure the long-term health of the plant, natural life and spring water and the safety of grazing livestock.

I think the proposals around the cable car have lost sight of this.

Yes, it is important that the hills are accessible to all those who may wish to enjoy them, but as was clear from the recent photographs in the Gazette of the disabled ramblers charity members, some with mobility scooters, that does not require a cable car!

If I became a conservator, I would be active in the role and ensure that the views of people who live in the Link are known and considered by the board while working for the conservation and future health of the hills and commons.

Sue Dalley

Malvern