ON THURSDAY, May 4 thousands of voters across the Vale will be heading to the polls in elections which will decide the make-up of Worcestershire County Council for the next four years.
Every division, 52 in total, will be up for election with candidates vying for your votes.
Our reporter Joshua Godfrey has spoken the candidates in the Pershore division about their campaign promises and why you should put a cross in the box next to their name.
Linda Robinson – Conservative
“I am campaigning for safer roads, pavements, and less congestion, finishing the Northern Link by building the bridge and protecting beds and services at Pershore Hospital.
“Many of you have shared concerns with me about road safety particularly controlling traffic speeds and HGV movements near schools, on the High Street and via our villages and better parking provision at Pershore station
“Once elected I will support your town and parish councils and attend their meetings. I will follow up your enquiries and keep in touch whilst working closely with your Conservative District Councillors Val Wood and Tony Rowley and your MPs.
“I am committed to representing everyone and importantly listening to you and getting issues resolved.”
Liz Tucker – Liberal Democrat 
“If the residents of Pershore Division give me their vote on Thursday, May 4 I will continue to continue to completion my 30 year campaign to see the Northern Link road built and reduce congestion at Pinvin crossroads, reduce the traffic on Terrace Road and past the High School.
“I will work to improve co-ordination between County Highways and Wychavon’s planning enforcement powers so we never again face the situation of the temporary traffic lights on Station Road that have made life a misery for so long.
“I will keep pushing hard for more to be spent to improve the state of roadside footpaths so that all – elderly, young and disabled – feel safe walking and using buggies around town.
“And I will continue my commitment to work hard to keep Pershore Riverside Youth Centre as a thriving youth centre for young people in this area now the County Council has abandoned providing a youth service.”
Nina Freund – Green Party
The party hadn’t responded to our requests for information as the Observer went to press.
