The Conservative group has announced its candidates for the Warwickshire County Council elections this May.

Cllr John Cooke, the incumbent councillor for Lapworth and West Kenilworth, will be contesting his seat again, whilst Richard Spencer will be standing for St John's Ward, and Andy Metcalf will be running for Park Hill.

Kenilworth St John's

Raised in Kenilworth, Richard Spencer has lived in the town for the majority of his life, aside from his studies at the University of Stirling as a mature student in the 1990's, and a brief relocation to reside in New Zealand.

Mr Spencer is a father to two children who both attend Kenilworth School, and he has spent most of his professional life working in the automotive industry.

"I am keen to become involved with the improvement of our town centre, to work with residents to attempt to harmonise pedestrian, cycles and vehicle use of Warwick Road, enhancing both safety and shopping experience in the town."

Mr Spencer has also said that he is committed to continuing the work of the retiring Cllr Alan Cockburn, in funding the planting of trees across the town.

"I've realised that it is all too easy to criticise or moan and groan about things which happen in the town and point the figure of blame.

"Hence when the opportunity came about to stand and hopefully represent St John's Ward for the Conservative Party, I figured why not?"

Kenilworth Park Hill

Andy Metcalf is also a first-time candidate. Andy has lived in Kenilworth for 30 years; initially involved in large scale exhibitions at NEC he now works part time for a charity.

He said: "Over the years I had responsibility for design, project management and financial planning.

"My commercial experience and current experience of providing one to one help and advice, is what I can bring to acting on your behalf as your county councillor for Kenilworth Park Hill and I am enthusiastic about this opportunity."

Lapworth and West Kenilworth

John Cooke with stand again for the Lapworth and West Kenilworth Ward at WCC.

Mr Cooke also holds a seat at Warwick District Council where he is the portfolio holder for development services.

Speaking to Kenilworth Nub News he said: "I believe that my many years experience as a local councillor, particularly in planning matters, can assist greatly as the government moves to a completely new planning system, as well as local government reorganisation.

"My dual membership of both county and district councils leaves me well placed to assist in these issues and with other local government matters too."

You can keep up to date with each candidate on Facebook by using the following links: John Cooke, Richard Spencer and Andy Metcalf.

You can also contact each candidate via email: [email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected]

For more information on the other candidates please see:

- Greens.

- Labour.

- Liberal Democrats.