Margaret Rowley is leader of the Liberal Democrats on Wychavon District Council and has been chairman of the council's environment committee.

She is married with three adult children and has lived in Worcestershire for 11 years.

After graduating in zoology, Mrs Rowley qualified as a librarian and now works in information services at a college of higher education.

She said: ''In today's complex society, we need to encourage people to work together to achieve common goals.

''Liberal Democrats want to see a shift of power from an over-centralised and authoritarian state to decentralised decision making giving local people a real say.''

Mrs Rowley is experienced in campaigning on local issues. She has built up two pre-school playgroups, fought unwanted development, campaigned for local post offices and to restore the Droitwich Canals.

She is currently campaigning with other local Liberal Democrats for much needed additional school places and improved rail services in Bromsgrove.

The Liberal Democrat priorities are investing in schools and hospitals to cut class sizes and waiting times; extra police officers; increasing the state pension; and providing reliable public transport.