With time running out to register to vote in the upcoming PCC elections, Paul Crossley, an experienced local community leader from Bath, has been announced as the Liberal Democrat candidate for the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner role.

Local people across the Avon and Somerset force area will have the chance to vote for a new Commissioner in elections to be held on Thursday, 5th May 2016. The Commissioner’s role is to hold the service to scrutiny and account on their behalf.

Mr Crossley has said his top priorities are to improve the way public services and

communities work together and to cut the costs of the Commissioner’s office. He was the Leader of B&NES Council from 2002–7 and from 2011–15.

He said: “I am delighted and honoured to have been selected as the Liberal Democrat candidate. My experience running a large Council enables me to improve efficiency, whilst cutting waste and bureaucracy. I have the highest regard for the people who make the Police their career. I want to help Avon and Somerset Police be the best and most effective Police Force in the country.”

He has identified five areas to prioritise, including closer working with Health and

Social Services, bringing back community schemes, such as Neighbourhood Watch, a higher resolution rate in crime, reducing bureaucracy and helping young people at risk of crime to be diverted towards positive channels.

The deadline to register to vote is midnight on 18th April. Visit: www.avonpccelection2016.org.uk/register-to-vote