By Gareth McKeever, the prospective parliamentry candidate for the Conservative party.
WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT THE LAKE DISTRICT?
The people. We still have community and unlike many other parts of the UK people say hello as they pass you on the street. The Lake District reminds me of growing up in Northern Ireland where family and community are also very important.
AND THE WORST?
Lack of well-paid jobs. We talk about affordable housing and post offices but we also need to focus on creating the jobs that will increase the demand for these sorts of services.
FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE LAKES?
Staveley. I love the fact that it is a working village with a strong local population. I am also partial to a pint of Bluebird from the Eagle & Child or a fry up to start the day off at Wilf's Cafe.
FAVOURITE MEMORIES?
Volunteering at Party in the Park, the annual party for Kendal organised by my church, St Thomas's. It is amazing to see 7,000 local people, young and old, enjoying the summer together in Maude's Meadow.
FAVOURITE SHOP/PLACE TO EAT?
My favourite shop is the Community Shop at Witherslack. They sell some delicious home-made cakes, as well as local farm produce. My favourite places to eat are The Joshua Tree in Kendal, The Punchbowl at Underbarrow and The Crosthwaite Exchange.
WHAT ONE CHANGE WOULD YOU MAKE?
Make a dramatic cut in car-parking charges. The boost to our local economy would more than compensate for the loss of revenue.
SUM UP THE LAKES IN FIVE WORDS
Life as it should be.
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