Princes Councillor - Cllr Townend

Cllr Townend

When and why did you first become interested in politics?
I grew up witnessing first hand the devastation wrought by the Thatcher government and a then poor local Council. It made me realise that politics really does affect people’s aspirations and life chances. My area was completely ignored and neglected.

What inspired you to represent people?
I saw that unless people make a stand for the rights of the disenfranchised then nothing will happen to improve the lives of the people most in need. I wanted to champion peoples’ interests.

What’s your greatest fear and your greatest hope?
Losing my wife is my greatest fear. My greatest hope is for peace in the Middle East.

What’s the first thing you would do if you ruled the world for a day?
Knock some heads together concerning the Middle East and make US engage properly in seeking a resolution to its problems. The current crisis can only entrench divisions and is pushing people into the arms of extremists.

What single thing do you most enjoy about representing people?
The chance to serve. The chance to deal with peoples’ problems on a day to day basis and to help make lives better. We can’t change things overnight, but bit by bit life can and should be made easier for people.

What fictional character do you identify with, and why?
Adrian Mole- not really. Who knows, life is stranger than fiction!

What’s your favourite film?
I love Casablanca, but the Big Lebowski is a good film too. I am a big fan of films- I just wish I had more time to watch them!

What does your council do particularly well?
Improving Schools performance – When I was Deputy Cabinet Member for Young People I was proud to be part of the efforts to improve educational performance. Despite starting from a low base in Lambeth educational standards, facilities and opportunities for the children have been improving. The next task is to entrench that position and ensure that standards exceed the national average as well as communicate to parents in Lambeth that they can trust and use Lambeth schools.

What was your most embarrassing moment?
I once offered a seat to a woman on the bus whom I assumed was pregnant. Needless to say she wasn’t was pregnant, I was mortified.

What is the biggest problem with politics today?
Standing up for people is the most enjoyable part of the job. But government and councils sometimes get things done really slowly and trying to make them listen to local people can be frustrating. Also, people – rightly – expect a lot more from their local politicians than they did 10 or 20 years ago so its important I live up to these expectations.

Who is your political hero, and why?
I think Alan Johnson is pretty admirable. From postie to Secretary of State for Education is pretty amazing.

What’s your theme song, and why?
“Things can only get better”… not really- I really like “Steady as She Goes” by The Raconteurs at the moment.

What one book would you take with you to a desert island?
Lord of the Rings- if I get to take all three books.

To get in touch with Labour councillors in Prince's Ward please complete the form below, or read about other councillors: