About me: Councillor Brian Gadd

I was elected councillor for Bexhill West in 2001, six years after I moved to the area with my family.

It is a joy to live in East Sussex and to get things done, not only for individuals but for the whole community. It is very rewarding.

But how did I get here?

I used to be a naval officer and, while I had a political viewpoint, I was unable to voice my opinions. When I left the service, I started becoming more active.

I eventually joined a merchant bank and due to the pressures of my new career, I had to be content with just being a paid-up member of the Conservative Party.

When I retired, I became an active member of the Conservative Association and felt I could do more for the community if I were to become a councillor where I could make decisions that would benefit the local people.

My community

Elderly people on fixed incomes in this division are concerned about increasing charges. Other problems include the growing number of unruly children ‘playing’ in the shopping areas, motorists speeding through residential areas and property speculators planning new buildings.

I represent a lot of very nice people. We still have the village atmosphere with shops that give good service and, in most cases, can beat the supermarkets on price. The local school is well integrated into the area and has an enviably high reputation.

My home life

My family is important to me. My wife Joanne and I have been married for 18 years. I have two adult children, one stepdaughter and six grandchildren.

My spare time

In addition to my role on the Council, I am non-executive chairman of a pharmaceutical company and the non-executive vice chairman of its African subsidiary.

I am part of the Bexhill Regeneration Partnership, the East Sussex Fire Authority and I am also involved in the Maritime Volunteer Service. I play golf when I can.

Find out about my politics and how I represent the people of Bexhill West