About me: Councillor Peter Jones

I represented Rye for eight years and, after boundary changes, I now represent the 10 villages in Northern Rother.

But how did I get here?

I became interested in politics while I was a student at Strathclyde University in Glasgow and I became actively involved while working in Edinburgh in late 1960s. I was a parliamentary candidate for Edinburgh Central in the two 1974 General Elections.

After that, I decided to concentrate on my career but when there was a vacancy on the County Council, I jumped at the chance to stand.

I have been a county councillor in East Sussex since 1997 and Leader since 2001.

My community

People in my division are concerned about the threat of crime and anti-social behaviour. The villages are bothered by drivers speeding, especially close to primary schools, and like all families about the need for good schools, care for the elderly and the lowest possible council tax.

People are a bit wealthier in my division.

My home life

My wife Jacqui and I met at university and we have been married for 35 years.

Before I retired, I was a partner in Laing & Cruickshank, a firm of stockbrokers. I was also the MD in mergers and acquisitions with Bankers Trust Co of New York.

My spare time

As well as being Leader of the Conservative group on the Council and Chairman of the Cabinet, I am a member of Sussex Police Authority.

Being retired, I have plenty of time for my work as a councillor. I enjoy reading, especially about history, wine and food and music.