With less than a month to go before council elections in Epsom and Ewell reporter Charlie Mole has been meeting the parties to hear why they think they deserve your vote...

This week he talks to the Liberal Democrats...

With 10 current councillors the Lib Dems are the main opposition to the RA ruling party. Leader Councillor Julie Morris says that it is time to set party politics aside and work together to achieve results for the community.

Mrs Morris, standing in College Ward, said: "The days when the elite in a local authority can dictate changes that affect its local residents are now over.

“We intend to consult with residents on every major change, including how council tax is spent.

"We must set party politics aside for the greater good, deliver real value for money and learn how to work together as a community. Whilst every party is presenting a strong field, I would urge residents to ask the various political groups where their candidates actually live, because in some cases it's not even in this borough."

Candidate for West Ewell, Jonanthan Lees emphasises the need to deal with each of the borough’s wards individual problems such as parking issues and protecting green spaces.

Mr Lees said: “We have a vision for both Epsom town and Ewell village, but each ward also has its own priorities.

“For example, the parking problems in Town and College Wards, the environment on the Longmead and Court Ward estates, help for small shops and businesses in West Ewell and Stoneleigh and the protection of green space in areas such as Stamford and Woodcote.”

First time candidate Tony Axelrod, says he joined the Lib Dems because they are the party doing the most for residents.

He said: “The Lib Dems have done a lot to put pressure on the RA over on-street parking and protecting green spaces.

“There is a strong feeling across the board that the RA have not listened to residents. I want to work closely with my colleagues to redress this and change the perception of the council.”

Five key Lib Dem policies: To secure value for money services.

Work together as a community.

Protect the environment.

Deal with parking and congestion problems.

Support small shops and businesses.

See a full list of candidates at epsomguardian.co.uk/localelections