THE new Stow-on-the-Wold District councillor has made more affordable housing one of her top priorities.

Dilys Neill was elected as a Liberal Democrat councillor in an election on Thursday September 29 to replace Barry Dare, who passed away in July.

Cllr Neill hopes that more affordable housing will help to keep younger people in the area as well as help older people looking to downsize.

Cllr Neill said: "I have been out canvassing, trying to see what people's priorities are.

"More affordable housing was something that a lot of people mentioned and I agree there is definitely a need for more affordable housing, so that young people can stay in the town or help older people want to move to a smaller house.

Cllr Neill is also prioritising planning, parking and traffic control.

"Stow is a lovely rural town and we don't want to ruin that with unnecessary development.

"There is a real need to find a solution to the parking problems. Stow attracts a lot of tourists that want somewhere to park their car and enjoy the town.

"We also need parking places for local people."

Cllr Neill was approached by the Liberal Democrats, whilst she was campaigning for Britain to remain in the EU.

She said: "I was approached by the Liberal Democrats and I thought why not do it. I have lived in the area for 35 years and what I found from talking to people is that the things I think are issues are reflected by a lot of people.

"From talking to people things like littering and dog fouling are also issues that concern people.

"I will also be talking to the county council and parish council to find out what their priorities are, as I think this is important to do.

"I am just finding my feet at the moment."