About me: Councillor Peter Jones

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

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.

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.

My new-found life in politics is very fulfilling and a complete contrast with my earlier career in the City.

My community

Rye has great beauty and a wealth of heritage, providing a powerful foundation for a highly successful tourism industry, which is our biggest employer.

People are a bit wealthier in my division. They tend to be concerned about poor roads and the need for better village facilities, particularly for young people.

Although many Rye residents are quite well off, some areas suffer from a certain level of deprivation and a weak skills base.

My home life

My wife Jacqui and I met at university and we have been married for 30 years. She is an MP for Beckenham.

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 Commissioner on the Audit Commission, Deputy Chairman of the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) and 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. I like walking and when I have time, I like to play petanque.

Find out about my politics and how I represent the people of Northern Rother