Local elections tend to get very little coverage and when they do it is mainly for their implications for the parties nationally.  For many electors, it is difficult to find out what the candidates stand for.  They may occasionally get a leaflet pushed through the letterbox, if that, but with little opportunity to find out more or to ask questions.

Two concerned citizens, with no previous involvement in politics, Mark Bell and Tony Parsons, decided to do something about this and have set up their own website, Votewise, designed to let electors know when a local election is being held in their area, who the candidates are, and what they stand for.  It is an extraordinarily worthwhile initiative.  Not surprisingly, their traffic increased substantially shortly before this year’s local elections.  (You can look at the elections covered in their archive.)  Now, of course, is a fairly quiet time of year, with few local elections in the offing.  However, if you look at the site, you will be able to see what they are seeking to do.   They are aided by volunteers.  If you have an interest, and want to offer your support, do get in touch.