Worcester elections 2024: Rainbow Hill ward candidates

The ward has been extended slightly, to include Hollymount School and Portefields Road in the southeast, and St Barnabas CE Primary School and Tintern Avenue in the northwest.

Labour will be hoping to keep their hold on the area at this year’s election.

Zoe Cookson was elected in 2022 and former city mayor Adrian Gregson most recently defended his seat in 2021, with Parveen Akhtar finishing in second place both times for the Conservatives.

Keith Burton - Conservatives

No profile or photo provided.

Susan Carpenter - Liberal Democrats

Susan Carpenter (Image: Susan Carpenter)

Sue comes from Yorkshire and has lived in Worcester for 50 years.

She is now retired but was previously a professional librarian working in both education and local authority libraries. As Sue Askin she was both a city and county councillor representing Claines from 1994-2017 in those roles. Married to Ken, she shares with him a total of five grandchildren.

Sue’s priorities for Rainbow Hill would include parking schemes that prioritise residents and the encouragement of support for local businesses. She is a keen supporter of improved public transport throughout the city which would reduce congestion and air pollution.

As an experienced city and county councillor Sue would represent the interests of Rainbow Hill effectively and make sure residents’ voices are heard.

Zoe Cookson - Labour

Zoe Cookson (Image: Zoe Cookson)

I have worked or lived in Worcester for 24 years. I began my career at Worcester City Council tackling crime and anti-social behaviour before moving to the county council to lead on children’s centres, extended schools and healthy schools. After that, I worked on many different projects for the NHS. I now run my own business.

In the two years since I was elected, I have been a strong voice for Rainbow Hill. I’ve worked with the police to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour, speeding and selfish parking. I’ve regularly challenged Platform Housing to deliver a better service for tenants. I obtained funding for the KGV, Tolly and Rainbow Hill Hubs and for a gate between KGV Playing Fields and Brickfields Road.

I’ve organised community meetings and have ‘called in’ unsuitable planning applications. I co-lead a monthly litter pick to ensure our streets remain free from litter and dog mess.

Adrian Gregson - Labour

Adrian Gregson (Image: Adrian Gregson)

I am standing for election to represent the local community where I have lived for nearly 40 years. As a current city councillor, I have experience in dealing with local concerns over a range of topics. I have been leader of the council and last year I had the honour to be the mayor and that gave me a great opportunity to meet lots of people and organisations across Worcester who do so much to make this a great place. 

I also know from that experience that many people in Rainbow Hill are suffering due to the cost of living, inadequate housing, anti-social behaviour and a poor public transport network. As your representative, I speak and act on these issues.

It is only Labour who can win a majority in the Guildhall to be able to address these inequalities, revitalise our economy, protect our heritage and unleash the talent of local people.

Mike Rouse - Conservatives

No profile or photo provided.

Josh Trimmer - Green Party

Josh Trimmer (Image: Josh Trimmer)

I grew up on the outskirts of Worcester then studied physics in Hull and robotics in Bristol. I am fortunate that for the last few years, I have been back where I belong, in Worcester. I love this city and how friendly it is. I want to help everyone feel that way. I can often be seen at gigs or performing at open mics. 

It’s been brilliant talking to residents of Rainbow Hill over the last year and it is clear that many want change locally. On the city council, Greens have done much to help the city become carbon neutral by 2030 and to collaborate with other parties while also challenging them. With more green councillors we will achieve even more positive change. What I offer is more interaction with you. I want to hear your opinions, have discussions and work together for a better Worcester.

Nick Weeks - Green Party

Nick Weeks (Image: Nick Weeks)

I was born in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds and spent most of my working life in London. Increasing disability forced me to take early retirement, and I moved to Worcester in 2011, choosing to live just off Rainbow Hill. I especially like having local shops, as I believe that locally owned small shops and businesses are important in maintaining a strong local economy and a sense of community.

I'm passionate about active travel, which in my case usually means an electric bike as I often find walking difficult. I'd use buses more if the service improved, and will continue to push for that as a priority.

As a former local government officer, I understand the need to work collaboratively with councillors and residents, so that worthwhile initiatives are not derailed by unnecessary problems or barriers. I put making life better for all of us above any kind of narrow party politics.