THE Malvern Hills Trust is electing a candidate to fill a vacancy in Priory Ward.

Three candidates are standing, and they have all set out their views on what they will do if elected.

Michael Johnson

"2020 has brought sharp focus to bear upon the crucial importance of our countries protected spaces and like many who regularly walk the hills, I recognise the challenges faced by the Trust in preserving the Hills for a wider range of users each with differing perspectives.

"So rather than 'leaving it for someone else to sort out', I would rather step in, have a go, and get involved.

"I will fully represent the interests of the Priory ward and all residents of Malvern who care about the stewardship of our Malvern Hills and surrounding commons.

"I will ensure that Malvern is receiving good value from the precept (tax) levied.

"I will provide full accessibility and accountability over my term.

"I will provide clear and accessible communication and always be happy to meet up over a coffee."

Who Am I?: A chartered engineer and art student (fighting for the survival of the Art College)

"I recently moved from 25 years living in the town to Clevelode.

"I lead walks on the hills including the annual Malvern Walking Festival.

"I passionately believe that it is only by engaging fully with the community, that the place and role of the Trust in both the present and future of our beautiful hills can be maintained."

David Street

"I was brought up in Malvern and went to Hanley Castle Grammar School.

"After the Army and university I spent my entire career in business culminating with running my own business consultancy - including work for the Prince's Trust.

"I have lived in Priory Ward since retirement and have the time to devote to this important trusteeship.

"I served on the Board of the Malvern Hills Trust for eight years until October 2019.

"I am currently a trustee of Malvern u3a. I have been involved with and support the proposed changes to the MHT's governance.

"Redrafting the 5 Acts of Parliament into modern English will be helpful in our understanding of the Trust's work.

"A reduction in the size of the Board (as recommended by the Charity Commission) will also make the Trust a more efficient and effective organisation - to continue to manage and keep our beautiful hills and commons open and free for all to access.

“I would like to serve again to assist the approval and implementation of these important changes.

"Please entrust me with your vote on May 6."

David Watkins

"As someone who was born, lived and worked in Malvern for over thirty years, I hope that I can ask for your support on May 6 to fill the vacancy in Priory on the Malvern Hills Trust.

"It is thanks to a few eminent residents who in the mid eighteenth century formed the Malvern Hills Conservators, the fore runner of what is now the Malvern Hills Trust, all under the protection of several Acts of Parliament.

"Serious concerns had been raised up by the increase in quarrying throughout the Hills, which resulted in permanent closure only sixty years ago.

"Nature has worked never ending over the decades to cover the many man-made scars, but it is the constant practical work undertaken by the Trust, that continues to draw community and visitors alike.

"If you support me and I am elected to the Trust on May 6.

"I hope that I will play a part more closely with the local community and its residents."