Final East Lothian Greens Council Candidates Announced
Two Scottish Green Party candidates have been confirmed for the East Lothian Council elections, meaning that all residents in the county will be able to vote Green for the first time.
After David Mumford had to withdraw as candidate for Dunbar & East Linton on health grounds, community activist Mark James has taken on the Greens nomination. He has pledged to cycle or take the bus when carrying out all Council duties if elected.
In Tranent, Wallyford & Macmerry, the Greens will stand for the first time. Education and social care support worker Marnie Stirling will contest the seat.
Mark James commented:
I am excited to have the opportunity to represent the community I have lived in for the past 21 years. We need to work together to tackle the climate crisis.
The candidates will join the four candidates who were confirmed last year.
In Musselburgh, the Party will be represented by Shona McIntosh, who has been at the forefront of campaigns to clean up the Esk following the recent oil spill and campaign for greater prominence to be given to nature-based solutions for Musselburgh’s flood defence plans.
Jacq Cottrell will contest North Berwick Coastal where she will be prioritising local democracy and the involvement of young people in local decisions, putting the needs of people before cars, active travel, and climate-resilient planning and housing.
Tim Porteus will again contest the Preston, Seton & Gosford ward after securing a significant increase in the Green vote share at the recent by-election. His campaign will focus on tackling anti-social behaviour and supporting plans for the Cockenzie 360 Centre.
In Haddington & Lammermuir, Jackie Swailes will contest the election. A business manager for the Green group of councillors in Edinburgh and a keen walker, Jackie explains why she is standing in the election:
I firmly believe that everyone should be given the opportunity to vote Green and send a message to the Council that we must meet our net zero obligations. Our campaign will bring forward ideas to improve the lives of East Lothian residents and build a supportive and inclusive community.
Marnie Stirling added:
East Lothian is beautiful part of the world to live and work, but it is not without its challenges. Our Green candidates are brimming with ideas to transform East Lothian and deliver real positive change.
Simon Francis, co-convenor of the East Lothian Green Party commented:
This is a very strong slate of candidates who will bring real world expertise and fresh thinking if elected to the Council. I would urge everyone to vote 1 for Scottish Green candidates in May and trust them to serve the communities they love.