About me: Councillor Maurice Skilton MBE

I was elected councillor for Old Town in Eastbourne in 1972, so this is my eighth term. I was born here in 1920, grew up here and ran my tailoring business here before I retired.

Law and order are key issues to people in Old Town, Eastbourne. I believe local authorities need more money and greater discretionary powers so they can help solve problems facing different communities.

But how did I get here?

After the war, I became concerned for the future of the country and joined the Liberal Party.

My late wife and I were also involved in caring for less fortunate children and campaigning against child cruelty. A friend, the former Conservative county councillor Aubrey Vickers, suggested I could further our cause by becoming a councillor.

My community

The community spirit in Old Town is very special and East Sussex is a beautiful county. I try to protect the county’s natural beauty by working as a Conservator of Ashdown Forest.

I get great pleasure from the friendship of the people, so being able to listen to them and sometimes help them is very rewarding.

I am very proud to have been closely involved in early stages of the Sovereign Harbour development, which has now become one of the best marinas in the South.

My home life

I am widowed. My wife and I had two children, our son Philip and our daughter Lindy, who died four years ago. I also have five grandchildren.

To be a good councillor, you have to find the time and have the support of your family but finding a balance between the two can be difficult. I always try to make sure my council work doesn’t take over.

My spare time

As well as Council, I sit on the East Sussex Fire Authority. I also help animal welfare organisations, raise money for the Patricia and William Venton Age Concern Centre and I’m a volunteer at the community library.

When I’m not busy, I like to go for a pint.

Find out about my politics and how I represent the people of Eastbourne - Old Town