THE Cheshire Independent Network will meet in Knutsford next week, with the event an opportunity for those wanting to know more about the group to attend.

Formed back in 2011, the group has grown its membership and now has its sights set on the 2019 elections, providing support and advice to candidates running for political roles as non-affiliated individuals.

The meeting will take place in the upstairs meeting room of The Angel in King Street, from 7pm on Tuesday, July 11.

Bernice Walmsley, CIN vice chair and Cheshire East Council ward member for Middlewich, said: “We are all aware of the political crisis that exists both nationally and locally and the need for a different approach to politics.

“CIN offers a real alternative to party politics. Those of us of an independent nature want what’s best for the people of Cheshire rather than what’s best for a political party, so I would encourage people to come along to the meeting next week to find out what we are doing and help us to further this aim in the 2019 elections.”

Among those involved in the network are Quentin Abel, independent General Election candidate for Tatton, and Rebecca O’Rourke, who put herself forward at a recent Knutsford Town Council by-election.

She said: “I stood because I wanted to help improve the local community, I could see the issues that needed addressing.

“Not getting elected hasn't dampened my spirits, if anything it’s made me more determined. I'm now on the board at the Welcome and continue to be involved in local voluntary work.”

The meeting will feature guest speakers from Alderley Edge, who will speak of their journey in forming ‘Alderley Edge First’, and getting elected to the parish council.

Christine Munro said: “The people of Alderley Edge told us they wanted a change, they wanted to see things happening in their village for the good of the village, so that’s why I and others formed Alderley Edge First.”

To find out more about how you can get involved, or about what the CIN and independents are about, feel free to attend the meeting on Tuesday.