About me: Councillor Pat Ost

I was elected councillor for Ouse Valley East in May 2005. I’ve lived in East Sussex since 1968.

There is a great deal of fear in my division about the imposition of a waste incinerator in the valley. There are also concerns about the level of congestion on major routes.

But how did I get here?

I wanted to put something back into a community I love and there is something of a family tradition of getting involved in the community.

My father was a rural district councillor in Essex and my wife’s family has always been involved in politics, so standing for election seemed quite reasonable. What was more surprising was getting elected at the first attempt.

My community

I love living in this unique combination of Downland, river valley and coast. I’m very pleased to be able to live here, work here and bring up my family in such a beautiful place.

Being involved in the community outside of my work is very rewarding, whether it’s seeing a project develop to fruition, being able to help individuals from time to time or just playing my part. I have also met many people who share my love for this place.

It’s very rewarding to work with a successful, energetic team at all levels of local government.

I’m especially glad when I can help a disabled person get a marked parking bay, persuade the Council to add kerb ramps to help wheelchair users at crossings, or join local amenity groups in cleaning up the local environment.

My home life

I have been married for 34 years. My son and daughter both went to school in Newhaven. Both have since graduated and moved away from East Sussex. My daughter is an engineer and my son is a university lecturer.

My background is as a biologist and chemist and I first moved here to work at Sussex University. But most of my work here has been as the site chemist for Parker Pens.

After a long day’s work, having to get up again and go to yet another meeting can be pretty trying.

Being a councillor is not about status or ego, it’s about involvement in your community and seeing how you can improve it for those around you. I would recommend anyone who wants to become a councillor to shadow a local councillor and help out with surgeries, campaigning and fundraising.

My spare time

I relax by reading, walking, wine-making, gardening and DIY.

Find out about my politics and how I represent the people of Ouse Valley East