DRIVEN by his passion to help people, Liberal Democrat Alex Bentley is stepping into this election ring to represent the residents of the town he loves.

With 22 years experience as a councillor for Portsmouth and the honour of being Lord Mayor of the City, the dad-of-three believes he has what it takes to bring about the change voters want.

Born in Fareham, the 58-year-old, who is managing director of Bentleys Bespoke Tailors, took an interest in politics at an early age and has been actively fighting for the rights of local people ever since.

He claims he can offer an alternative to the MP's tainted by the "corruption" surrounding the expenses scandal and will work to ensure that plans for the proposed 7,000 homes north of the borough include solid infrastructure.

He said: "I like Fareham and I believe it is growing in importance, a real gateway between Portsmouth and Southampton.

"I will take a keen interest in the plans proposed for the new 7,000 development and will remind planners of the problems which the residents care most about, making sure it has the roads, schools and community services in place.

"I will also look at rents being changed in Fareham for small businesses. At the moment individual shops are discouraged from moving into the borough but I want to welcome those businesses in, offering the people something different and boosting the character of Fareham."