Wendy Flynn

I've lived in Hesters Way since 1994 and for 22 years represented Hester’s Way on the Borough Council. In 2022, I left the Lib Dems because Cheltenham Lib Dems were abandoning their values in order to retain power and votes. The Green Party matched my values and ethics and was a natural home. In 2024, I narrowly missed out on being re-elected as a Green by 68 votes. I've volunteered in various local settings: as a school governor, PTA treasurer, Surestart Board member, Lido Trustee, a Brownie Guider (24 years) and I am currently a Director (Treasurer) of the West Cheltenham Partnership and Vice Chair of the Hesters Way Neighbourhood Planning Forum. I also run a free to attend creative writing group in Hesters Way. I've taken part in litter picks, tree planting, community events, and much more. In my Council role, I spoke up for Hester’s Way in committees and meetings both inside and outside the Council. I helped residents with issues such as social housing applications, planning applications, anti-social behaviour, overgrown trees, and refuse collection. As Mayor, in 2013, I challenged how people across the town perceived Hesters Way; I still do this daily. In the 2 years I've not been a councillor, I've continued to scrutinise the Lib Dems decisions; on the Household Recycling Centre, their budget, the Golden Valley Development, biodiversity and more. I will continue to use my voice to advocate for west Cheltenham residents, who are my neighbours and my community, regardless of the election result. I have a Dip HE in Business and Finance and a BA in Creative Writing, both from the University of Gloucestershire, and life-coaching qualifications from Gloscol and Warwick University. I worked as an office manager in Cheltenham for several years. My hobbies and interests include creative writing, working as a film and TV extra, learning Turkish, watching live music and swimming in pools, rivers, lakes and seas.