Former Mayor of Shrewsbury to stand in by-election

A former Mayor of Shrewsbury is to stand in the Battlefield town by-election.

Elisabeth 'Elise' Addams has been selected by as the Green Party candidate in what is expected to be a two-party race between them and the Liberal Democrats. The by-election has been called after Reform councillor, Harry Hancock-Davies stood down from Shrewsbury Town Council due to increased work pressures.

"I am delighted to have been chosen as the Green Party candidate for the Battlefield by-election," said Ms Addams.

"Having previously been the town councillor for the adjacent area of Harlescott, I am very much aware of the issues that are prevalent here and I love the amazing community that makes this area what it is.

"My previous experience in the town council means I am ready to hit the ground running. I look forward to the opportunity to talk to as many people as possible and making sure their voices are heard."

Councillor Emma Micklewright (Greens, Radbrook) added: "People in Battlefield should be angry – this by-election comes after the Reform councillor failed to attend meetings and is costing the taxpayer thousands of pounds.

"The Green Party wants to give Battlefield residents an opportunity to elect someone who is passionate about this community and willing to serve it.

"Having previously been town councillor for the adjacent Harlescott ward, Elisabeth Addams has a proven track record of going above and beyond when it comes to supporting residents from housing issues, benefit problems, and the impact of drug crime, as well as chairing the Town Council for a year while she served Mayor of Shrewsbury.

"She will put residents first and help to hold Shrewsbury Town Council’s Liberal Democrat administration to account.

The Lib Dem candidate is Kate Fejfer, who came second at last year's local elections.

“Local residents deserve somebody who will turn up, listen and put the work in. That is what being a town councillor should be about," said Mrs Fejfer, who runs a Community Interest Company and is married to Monkmoor Councillor, Adam Fejfer.

“I’ve lived in Shrewsbury with my family for more than 20 years and community work has always been a huge part of my life.

"I know this area, I care about it and I’m looking forward to getting out across Battlefield and speaking to residents.

“I came very close here last time. I’m ready to work incredibly hard again.”