I have lived in Coopers Edge since 2011 and have been a parish councillor since 2014. I am now retired, but when working I was a lecturer in arboriculture and horticulture at a Further Education college. Consequently, I have an interest in all issues concerned with the urban landscape, particularly planning issues as they affect trees and woodlands. Since becoming a councillor I have been surprised at the number of natural environment issues that have occurred and I have found it very rewarding being able to make a contribution.